Total body polyethylene wraps for preventing hypothermia in preterm infants: a randomized trial

Skin-to-Skin Contact for Transferring Preterm Infants from the Delivery Room to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Is Promising Despite Moderate Heat Loss during the Procedure

OBJECTIVE

The principal aim of this prospective observational study was to assess the feasibility of skin-to-skin contact (SSC) with fathers during the transfer of preterm infants from the delivery room to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in comparison with incubator transfers.

STUDY DESIGN

The study population comprised preterm singletons born between May and December 2019 in our maternity ward who did not require invasive ventilation. Physiological parameters (axillary temperature, heart rate, and fraction of inspired oxygen) of the newborns were recorded at prespecified steps during the transfers. The impact of the transfer mode on early blood glucose level, blood gas, and neonatal morbidities and mortality and the delay in the first SSC in the NICU and breastfeeding implementation and maintenance were also analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight preterm infants were transferred in incubators, and 29 infants were transferred using SSC. The SSC transfer induced heat loss (mean, -0.45°C; standard deviation [SD], 0.58). However, the decrease in temperature was similar to that observed during transfer in the incubator (mean, -0.30°C; SD, 0.49; p = 0.3). The transfer using SSC was not an independent factor associated with hypothermia at admission in the NICU (adjusted odds ratio, 2.6 [0.68-9.75]; p = 0.16). Neonatal morbidities and mortality were similar regardless of the transfer mode. The SSC transfer promoted early SSC in the neonatal unit (median hour [range], incubator 26 [2-126] vs SSC 13 [1-136], p = 0.03) and breastfeeding at discharge (incubator 35.7% vs SSC 69%, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The SSC transfer of preterm infants was feasible and promoted earlier SSC and breastfeeding. Nevertheless, the SSC transfer, like the transfer in the incubator, induced moderate heat losses that exacerbated hypothermia at admission in the NICU. The improvement of thermal conservation during infant positioning and the continuation of SSC in the unit could help in preventing hypothermia.

KEY POINTS

· The SSC transfer was associated with heat loss during the transfer procedure.. · The SSC transfer promoted earlier SSC in the neonatal unit.. · The SSC transfer was likely to encourage breastfeeding..

Thermoregulation for very preterm infants in the delivery room: a narrative review

Abnormal temperature in preterm infants is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Infants born prematurely are at risk of abnormal temperature immediately after birth in the delivery room (DR). The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that the temperature of newly born infants is maintained between 36.5-37.5oC after birth. When caring for very preterm infants, the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) recommends using a combination of interventions to prevent heat loss. While hypothermia remains prevalent, efforts to prevent it have increased the incidence of hyperthermia, which may also be harmful. Delayed cord clamping (DCC) for preterm infants has been recommended by ILCOR since 2015. Little is known about the effect of timing of DCC on temperature, nor have there been specific recommendations for thermal care before DCC. This review article focuses on the current evidence and recommendations for thermal care in the DR, and considers thermoregulation in the context of emerging interventions and future research directions. IMPACT: Abnormal temperature is common amongst very preterm infants after birth, and is an independent risk factor for mortality. The current guidelines recommend a combination of interventions to prevent heat loss after birth. Despite this, abnormal temperature is still a problem, across all climates and economies. New and emerging delivery room practice (i.e., delayed cord clamping, mobile resuscitation trolleys, early skin to skin care) may have an effect on infant temperature. This article reviews the current evidence and recommendations, and considers future research directions.

Maintaining normothermia immediately after birth in preterm infants <34 weeks' gestation: A systematic review and meta-analysis

AIM

To evaluate delivery room (DR) interventions to prevent hypothermia and improve outcomes in preterm newborn infants <34 weeks' gestation.

METHODS

Medline, Embase, CINAHL and CENTRAL were searched till 22nd July 2022. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non-RCTs and quality improvement studies were considered. A random effects meta-analysis was performed, and the certainty of evidence was evaluated using GRADE guidelines.

RESULTS

DR temperature of ≥23 °C compared to standard care improved temperature outcomes without an increased risk of hyperthermia (low certainty), whereas radiant warmer in servo mode compared to manual mode decreased mean body temperature (MBT) (moderate certainty). Use of a plastic bag or wrap (PBW) improved normothermia (low certainty), but with an increased risk of hyperthermia (moderate certainty). Plastic cap improved normothermia (moderate certainty) and when combined with PBW improved MBT (low certainty). Use of a cloth cap decreased moderate hypothermia (low certainty). Though thermal mattress (TM) improved MBT, it increased risk of hyperthermia (low certainty). Heated-humidified gases (HHG) for resuscitation decreased the risk of moderate hypothermia and severe intraventricular hemorrhage (very low to low certainty). None of the interventions was shown to improve survival, but sample sizes were insufficient.

CONCLUSIONS

DR temperature of ≥23 °C, radiant warmer in manual mode, use of a PBW and a head covering is suggested for preterm newborn infants <34 weeks' gestation. HHG and TM could be considered in addition to PBW provided resources allow, in settings where hypothermia incidence is high. Careful monitoring to avoid hyperthermia is needed.

Neonatal Golden Hour: a review of current best practices and available evidence

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Recommendations made by several scientific bodies advocate for adoption of evidence-based interventions during the first 60 min of postnatal life, also known as the 'Golden Hour', to better support the fetal-to-neonatal transition. Implementation of a Golden Hour protocol leads to improved short-term and long-term outcomes, especially in extremely premature and extreme low-birth-weight (ELBW) neonates. Unfortunately, several recent surveys have highlighted persistent variability in the care provided to this vulnerable population in the first hour of life.

RECENT FINDINGS

Since its first adoption in the neonatal ICU (NICU) in 2009, published literature shows a consistent benefit in establishing a Golden Hour protocol. Improved short-term outcomes are reported, including reductions in hypothermia and hypoglycemia, efficiency in establishing intravenous access, and timely initiation of fluids and medications. Additionally, long-term outcomes report decreased risk for bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

SUMMARY

Critical to the success and sustainability of any Golden Hour initiative is recognition of the continuous educational process involving multidisciplinary team collaboration to ensure coordination between providers in the delivery room and beyond. Standardization of practices in the care of extremely premature neonates during the first hour of life leads to improved outcomes.

VIDEO ABSTRACT

http://links.lww.com/MOP/A68 .

Reducing intraventricular hemorrhage following the implementation of a prevention bundle for neonatal hypothermia

Introduction

In very low birth weight (VLBW) infants, hypothermia immediately following birth is common even in countries rich in medical resources. The purpose of this study is to design a standard prevention bundle that decreases the rate of hypothermia among infants after birth and to investigate efficacy of the bundle and short-term outcomes for VLBW infants.

Methods

This quality improvement project was conducted from February 2017 to July 2018 on all VLBW preterm infants admitted at a single referral level III neonatal intensive care unit. The infants were classified into the pre-intervention (February to September 2017) and post-intervention (October 2017 to July 2018) groups according to the time periods when they were recruited. During the pre-intervention period, we analyzed the primary causes of hypothermia, developed solutions corresponding to each cause, integrated all solutions into a prevention bundle, and applied the bundle during the post-intervention period. Afterwards, the incidence of neonatal hypothermia and short-term outcomes, such as intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), acidosis, and shock requiring inotropic agents, in each group were compared.

Results

A total of 95 VLBW infants were enrolled in the study, including 37 pre-intervention, and 58 post-intervention cases. The incidence of hypothermia in preterm infants decreased significantly upon the implementation of our prevention bundle, both in the delivery room (from 45.9% to 8.6%) and on admission (59.5% to 15.5%). In addition, the short-term outcomes of VLBW infants improved significantly, especially with the decreased incidence of IVH (from 21.6% to 5.2%, P = 0.015).

Conclusions

Our standardized prevention bundle for preventing hypothermia in VLBW infants is effective and decreased the IVH rate in VLBW infants. We strongly believe that this prevention bundle is a simple, low-cost, replicable, and effective tool that hospitals can adopt to improve VLBW infant outcomes.

Risk factors for anesthesia-associated postoperative capillary leakage after thoracoscopic surgery in neonates: A single-center observational study

BACKGROUND

Thoracoscopy is considered the surgical method of choice for addressing a wide range of conditions in neonates. However, there is a lack of experience in anesthesia management for this procedure. On reviewing the newborns who had undergone thoracoscopic surgery at our medical center, some had developed edema after surgery. After excluding other etiologies, these neonates were diagnosed with capillary leakage secondary to thoracoscopy.

AIMS

This study aimed to identify the potential risk factors for capillary leakage secondary to thoracoscopy in neonates and to provide reference information for optimal anesthesia management.

METHODS

This single-center, retrospective, observational study examined neonates who had undergone thoracoscopic surgery between January 1, 2018, and September 31, 2021. Their electronic medical records were analyzed for demographic and clinical characteristics associated with anesthesia, and postoperative capillary leakage occurring within 24 and 48 h of surgery was assessed based on medical records.

RESULTS

A total of 56 neonates that underwent thoracoscopic surgery were included in this study. Postoperative capillary leakage within 24 h was diagnosed in 14 neonates (25%). The partial pressure of carbon dioxide was an independent factor influencing the occurrence of postoperative edema within 24 h (P = 0.021). Overall, 21 cases (37.5%) were diagnosed as postoperative capillary leakage within 48 h, and age was an independent factor influencing the occurrence of postoperative edema within 48 h (P = 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

According to our findings, we concluded that preventing the elevation of the partial pressure of carbon dioxide may reduce the occurrence of secondary capillary leakage within 24 h after thoracoscopic surgery, and that older newborns are less likely to have secondary capillary leakage within 48 h after thoracoscopic surgery. Our findings provide evidence that directly informs anesthesia management for thoracoscopic surgery in neonates.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100054117).

Delivery Room Interventions for Hypothermia in Preterm Neonates: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-analysis

Importance

Prevention of hypothermia in the delivery room is a cost-effective, high-impact intervention to reduce neonatal mortality, especially in preterm neonates. Several interventions for preventing hypothermia in the delivery room exist, of which the most beneficial is currently unknown.

Objective

To identify the delivery room thermal care intervention that can best reduce neonatal hypothermia and improve clinical outcomes for preterm neonates born at 36 weeks' gestation or less.

Data Sources

MEDLINE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, and CINAHL databases were searched from inception to November 5, 2020.

Study Selection

Randomized and quasi-randomized clinical trials of thermal care interventions in the delivery room for preterm neonates were included. Peer-reviewed abstracts and studies published in non-English language were also included.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Data from the included trials were extracted in duplicate using a structured proforma. A network meta-analysis with bayesian random-effects model was used for data synthesis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary outcomes were core body temperature and incidence of moderate to severe hypothermia on admission or within the first 2 hours of life. Secondary outcomes were incidence of hyperthermia, major brain injury, and mortality before discharge. The 9 thermal interventions evaluated were (1) plastic bag or plastic wrap covering the torso and limbs with the head uncovered or covered with a cloth cap; (2) plastic cap covering the head; (3) skin-to-skin contact; (4) thermal mattress; (5) plastic bag or plastic wrap with a plastic cap; (6) plastic bag or plastic wrap along with use of a thermal mattress; (7) plastic bag or plastic wrap along with heated humidified gas for resuscitation or for initiating respiratory support in the delivery room; (8) plastic bag or plastic wrap along with an incubator for transporting from the delivery room; and (9) routine care, including drying and covering the body with warm blankets, with or without a cloth cap.

Results

Of the 6154 titles and abstracts screened, 34 studies that enrolled 3688 neonates were analyzed. Compared with routine care alone, plastic bag or wrap with a thermal mattress (mean difference [MD], 0.98 °C; 95% credible interval [CrI], 0.60-1.36 °C), plastic cap (MD, 0.83 °C; 95% CrI, 0.28-1.38 °C), plastic bag or wrap with heated humidified respiratory gas (MD, 0.76 °C; 95% CrI, 0.38-1.15 °C), plastic bag or wrap with a plastic cap (MD, 0.62 °C; 95% CrI, 0.37-0.88 °C), thermal mattress (MD, 0.62 °C; 95% CrI, 0.33-0.93 °C), and plastic bag or wrap (MD, 0.56 °C; 95% CrI, 0.44-0.69 °C) were associated with greater core body temperature. Certainty of evidence was moderate for 5 interventions and low for plastic bag or wrap with a thermal mattress. When compared with routine care alone, a plastic bag or wrap with heated humidified respiratory gas was associated with less risk of major brain injury (risk ratio, 0.23; 95% CrI, 0.03-0.67; moderate certainty of evidence) and a plastic bag or wrap with a plastic cap was associated with decreased risk of mortality (risk ratio, 0.19; 95% CrI, 0.02-0.66; low certainty of evidence).

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this study indicate that most thermal care interventions in the delivery room for preterm neonates were associated with improved core body temperature (with moderate certainty of evidence). Specifically, use of a plastic bag or wrap with a plastic cap or with heated humidified gas was associated with lower risk of major brain injury and mortality (with low to moderate certainty of evidence).

Eligibility Criteria and Representativeness of Randomized Clinical Trials That Include Infants Born Extremely Premature: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE

To assess the eligibility criteria and trial characteristics among contemporary (2010-2019) randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that included infants born extremely preterm (<28 weeks of gestation) and to evaluate whether eligibility criteria result in underrepresentation of high-risk subgroups (eg, infants born at <24 weeks of gestation).

STUDY DESIGN

PubMed and Scopus were searched January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2019, with no language restrictions. RCTs with mean or median gestational ages at birth of <28 weeks of gestation were included. The study followed the PRISMA guidelines; outcomes were registered prospectively. Data extraction was performed independently by multiple observers. Study quality was evaluated using a modified Jadad scale.

RESULTS

Among RCTs (n = 201), 32 552 infants were included. Study participant characteristics, interventions, and outcomes were highly variable. A total of 1603 eligibility criteria were identified; rationales were provided for 18.8% (n = 301) of criteria. Fifty-five RCTs (27.4%) included infants <24 weeks of gestation; 454 (1.4%) infants were identified as <24 weeks of gestation.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study identifies sources of variability across RCTs that included infants born extremely preterm and reinforces the critical need for consistent and transparent policies governing eligibility criteria.

Neonatal Thermoregulation: A Golden Hour Protocol Update

BACKGROUND

Premature infants are poor regulators of body temperature and are subjected to environmental factors that can lead to rapid heat loss, leaving them vulnerable to an increased risk of morbidity and mortality from hypothermia. Thermoregulation protocols have proven to increase survival in preterm infants.

PURPOSE

To evaluate a Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle on a previously implemented Golden Hour protocol at a military medical care facility for infants born at less than 32 weeks of gestation and weighing less than1500 g. Specific aims included the use of increased delivery/operating room temperatures and proper use of thermoregulatory devices (polyethylene bags and thermal mattress).

METHODS

Outcomes were analyzed and compared using a pre/postdesign. The data was collected using the neonatal intensive care unit admission worksheet.

RESULTS

Although statistical analysis was not significant, clinical significance was illustrated by a decrease in hypothermia rates on admission and at 1 hour of life. There was a 100% compliance rate with increasing delivery room/operating room temperatures and thermal mattress use. Polyethylene bag use compliance was 50%.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Golden Hour protocols have proven to be an effective tool. Thermoregulation is a significant component of these protocols, and it is imperative that every step is taken to manage the environmental temperature during the birth and admission process.

IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH

There is a need for continued research on the impacts of thermoregulatory devices and protocols, with resulting practice and device recommendations.

Early Skin-to-Skin Care with a Polyethylene Bag for Neonatal Hypothermia: A Randomized Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether early polyethylene bag use with skin-to-skin care compared with skin-to skin care alone reduce hypothermia among infants born at term in resource-limited settings.

STUDY DESIGN

Infants born at term in the tertiary referral center in Lusaka, Zambia, were randomized using sequentially numbered sealed opaque envelopes in 2 phases: after birth (phase 1) and at 1 hour after birth (phase 2) to either skin-to-skin care with polyethylene bags or skin-to-skin care alone. Infant and maternal temperatures were recorded at birth, 1 hour, and every 4 hours until discharge or 24 hours.

RESULTS

We enrolled 423 infants from May 2017 to August 2017. The rate of moderate-severe hypothermia (temperature <36.0°C) at 1 hour was 72 of 208 (34.6%) in the skin-to-skin care with a polyethylene bag group compared with 101 of 213 (47.4%) in the skin-to-skin care alone group (relative risk, 0.71; 95% CI 0.56-0.90; P < .01; number needed to treat = 8). phase 1 treatment assignment significantly modified the effect of phase 2 treatment (P = .02 for interaction effect). Among infants randomized to skin-to-skin care with a polyethylene bag in phase 1, the risk of moderate-severe hypothermia was decreased in infants randomized to continue this intervention until discharge compared with infants randomized to skin-to-skin care alone. The rates of severe hypothermia, hyperthermia, and other adverse events did not differ significantly between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-cost polyethylene bags started after birth in combination with skin-to-skin care reduced moderate or severe hypothermia at 1 hour and at discharge among infants born at term in a resource-limited setting compared with skin-to-skin care alone.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03141723.

The effect of thermoregulation quality improvement initiatives on the admission temperature of premature/very low birth-weight infants in neonatal intensive care units: A systematic review

PURPOSE

The purpose of this review was to ascertain the impact of thermoregulation quality improvement initiatives (QIs) on the admission temperatures of premature/very-low-birth-weight infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).

METHODS

A systematic search of databases Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane library was carried out. Specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were adhered to, with no publication date limitations added. The chosen studies were examined for quality, data were extracted and analysed, before a narrative synthesis was performed. The last search occurred on January 7, 2019, with PRISMA flow diagrams completed for identified studies.

RESULTS

Ten studies of varying methodology design were included in this review. Variations of thermoregulation interventions were included in the 10 studies. Nevertheless, all of them demonstrated that admission temperature rates can be significantly improved by implementing a thermoregulation QI. The multidisciplinary team and ongoing education were seen as much needed components to the overall sustainability, and continuing success of the QI's.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS

This systematic review determines that thermoregulation QIs can positively impact the admission temperatures of premature/very-low-birth-weight infants in the NICU. Prevention of hypothermia is aimed at reducing the risks of developing major neonatal morbidities. The pooling of the results from the 10 studies helps in the sharing of outcome measures and thus, improving quantitative synthesis. More frequent monitoring of the axillary temperature would help in preventing hypothermia and hyperthermia occurring. Ongoing education and staff training are essential for managing thermoregulation successfully. Examining the compliance rates to such quality initiatives, and the variations in interventions would benefit from further research to ensure better standardisation of clinical practice.

Evidências sobre prevenção de lesões de pele em recém-nascidos: revisão integrativa

Objetivo: identificar estratégias para a prevenção de lesões de pele em recém-nascidos (RN) hospitalizados, publicadas em periódicos científicos no período de 2013 a 2018. Método: revisão integrativa de literatura realizada em dois momentos de busca em bases de dados, sendo selecionados 37 estudos publicados entre os anos de 2013 e 2018. Resultados: termorregulação, uso de antisséptico, uso de emolientes e limpeza do coto umbilical foram as recomendações mais encontradas. Entre as práticas baseadas em evidência, destacam-se as que previnem o risco de hipotermia, como o uso de saco de polietileno e o contato pele a pele, que respaldam a assistência e que garantem segurança no cuidado do paciente neonatal. Conclusão: a prevenção de lesões de pele é um tema relevante, entretanto, existe escassez de evidências robustas para sustentar, com segurança, as práticas de cuidados com o RN. Observa-se ainda que as evidências são insuficientes para englobar o universo do tema, demonstrando que o cuidado com a pele é um tema que demanda investimentos e mais pesquisas.

Evidence on prevention of skin lesions in newborns: integrative review

Objective: To identify strategies for the prevention of skin lesions in hospitalized newborns (NBs), published in scientific journals from 2013 to 2018. Method: Integrative literature review performed in two moments of database search, selecting 37 studies published between 2013 and 2018. Results: Thermoregulation, use of antiseptic, use of emollients and cleaning of the umbilical stump were the most commonly found recommendations. Among the evidence-based practices, we highlight those that prevent the risk of hypothermia, such as the use of a polyethylene bag and skin-to-skin contact, which support the assistance and ensure safety in the care of the neonatal patient. Conclusion: The prevention of skin lesions is a relevant topic. However, there is a scarcity of robust evidence to safely sustain NB care practices. It is also observed that the evidence is insufficient to encompass the universe of the theme, demonstrating that skin care is a theme that requires investment and more research.

Efficacy of Polyethylene Skin Wrapping in Preventing Hypothermia in Preterm Neonates (<34 Weeks): A Parallel Group Non-blinded Randomized Control Trial

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine the efficacy of polyethylene skin wrapping on thermoregulation in preterm neonates.

METHODS

Total 151 neonates were enrolled in this randomized control trial. In the control group, neonates were transferred to the radiant warmer and covered with warm cloth after initial care. In the study group, neonates were transferred to the radiant warmer and placed in a food-grade polyethylene bag for 1 h. Axillary temperature of all neonates was recorded for first 24 h at frequent time intervals.

RESULTS

Mean temperature reached to normal range earlier and remained significantly higher in the study group for most time intervals, and this difference persisted even at 24 h. Significantly less number of preterm newborns suffered from hypothermia in the study group as compared with the control group [50 (67.6%) vs. 67 (87%), p = 0.004].

CONCLUSIONS

Polyethylene wraps achieved rapid, sustained thermal control and were effective in preventing hypothermia in preterm newborns.

Admission temperature and hospital outcomes in extremely preterm infants

AIM

To evaluate trends in admission temperature and its effect on mortality and short-term morbidities in extremely preterm infants.

METHODS

A regional cohort study of infants born at 23-28 weeks' gestation and admitted to the 10 neonatal intensive care units in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory between 1994 and 2012. Hypothermia was defined as skin temperature <36°C on admission to the neonatal intensive care unit. The primary outcome was hospital mortality.

RESULTS

In total, 6267 infants were included. Mean admission temperatures improved significantly from 35.6°C in 1994 to 36.4°C in 2012 (R < 0.88). The incidence of hypothermia was 29.5 and 13.9% between 1994-2005 and 2006-2012, respectively. In comparison with normothermic infants, hypothermic infants had lower gestational age at birth (26 vs. 27 weeks) and lower birthweight (800 vs. 976 g). In-hospital mortality was higher in hypothermic infants (28.5 vs. 12.9%; odds ratio (OR) 2.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.37-3.06). Severe intraventricular haemorrhage (12.1 vs. 8.5%, OR 1.48, 95% CI 1.25-1.75), necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) (11.0 vs. 7.5%; OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.29-1.83) and severe retinopathy of prematurity (16.5 vs. 8.9%; OR 2.02, 95% CI 1.70-2.39) were significantly higher in hypothermic infants. Multivariate regression analysis showed hypothermia was an independent risk factor for increased mortality (AOR (adjusted odds ratio ) 1.50, 95% CI 1.29-1.74, P < 0.001) and NEC (AOR 1.28, 95% CI 1.05-1.55, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Admission temperatures improved during the time period. Hypothermia at admission was associated with a significant increase in mortality and NEC.

Maintaining normothermia: Why and how?

A high incidence of postnatal hypothermia has been reported in high-as well low-resource countries and it remains an independent predictor of neonatal morbidity and mortality, especially in very preterm infants in all settings. The temperature of newly born infants should be maintained between 36.5 and 37.5 °C after birth through admission and stabilization. Interventions to achieve this may include environmental temperature 23-25 °C, use of radiant warmers, exothermic mattresses, woollen or plastic caps, plastic wraps, humidified and heated gases. Skin-to-skin contact has been used, especially in low-resource settings. The combinations of these interventions applied to quality improvement initiatives, including staff training, use of checklists, and continuous feedback with the staff involved in the management of the neonate, are key factors to prevent heat loss from delivery room to admission to the neonatal intensive care unit. The admission temperature should be recorded as a predictor of outcomes as well as a quality indicator.

The impact of a quality improvement effort in reducing admission hypothermia in preterm infants following delivery

PURPOSE

Hypothermia at admission is associated with increased mortality and morbidity in preterm infants. We performed a quality improvement (QI) effort to determine the impact of a decrease in admission hypothermia in preterm infants.

METHODS

The study enrolled very low birth weight (VLBW) infants born at Gangnam Severance Hospital between January 2013 and December 2016. This multidisciplinary QI effort included the use of occlusive wraps, warm blankets, and caps; the delivery room temperature was maintained above 23.0˚C, and a check-list was used for feedback.

RESULTS

Among 259 preterm infants, the incidence of hypothermia (defined as body temperature <36.0˚C) decreased significantly from 68% to 41%, and the mean body temperature on neonatal intensive care unit admission increased significantly from 35.5˚C to 36.0˚C. In subgroup analysis of VLBW infants, admission hypothermia and neonatal outcomes were compared between the pre-QI (n=55) and post-QI groups (n=75). Body temperature on admission increased significantly from 35.4˚C to 35.9˚C and the number of infants with hypothermia decreased significantly from 71% to 45%. There were no cases of neonatal hyperthermia. The incidence of pulmonary hemorrhage was significantly decreased (P=0.017). Interaction analysis showed that birth weight and gestational age were not correlated with hypothermia following implementation of the protocol.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated a significant reduction in admission hypothermia following the introduction of a standardized protocol in our QI effort. This resulted in an effective reduction in the incidence of massive pulmonary hemorrhage.

Interventions to prevent hypothermia at birth in preterm and/or low birth weight infants

BACKGROUND

Newborn admission temperature is a strong predictor of outcomes across all gestations. Hypothermia immediately after birth remains a worldwide issue and, if prolonged, is associated with harm. Keeping preterm infants warm is difficult even when recommended routine thermal care guidelines are followed in the delivery room.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy and safety of interventions designed for prevention of hypothermia in preterm and/or low birth weight infants applied within 10 minutes after birth in the delivery room, compared with routine thermal care or any other single/combination of intervention(s) also designed for prevention of hypothermia in preterm and/or low birth weight infants applied within 10 minutes after birth in the delivery room.

SEARCH METHODS

We used the standard search strategy of Cochrane Neonatal to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2016, Issue 5), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to 30 June 2016), Embase (1980 to 30 June 2016), and CINAHL (1982 to 30 June 2016). We also searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings, and reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised controlled trials and quasi-randomised trials.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Trials using randomised or quasi-randomised allocations to test interventions designed to prevent hypothermia (apart from 'routine' thermal care) applied within 10 minutes after birth in the delivery room for infants at < 37 weeks' gestation and/or birth weight ≤ 2500 grams.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used Cochrane Neonatal methods when performing data collection and analysis.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-five studies across 15 comparison groups met the inclusion criteria, categorised as: barriers to heat loss (18 studies); external heat sources (three studies); and combinations of interventions (four studies).Barriers to heat loss Plastic wrap or bag versus routine carePlastic wraps improved core body temperature on admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or up to two hours after birth (mean difference (MD) 0.58°C, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.50 to 0.66; 13 studies; 1633 infants), and fewer infants had hypothermia on admission to the NICU or up to two hours after birth (typical risk ratio (RR) 0.67, 95% CI 0.62 to 0.72; typical risk reduction (RD) -0.25, 95% CI -0.29 to -0.20; number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) 4, 95% CI 4 to 5; 10 studies; 1417 infants). Risk of hyperthermia on admission to the NICU or up to two hours after birth was increased in infants in the wrapped group (typical RR 3.91, 95% CI 2.05 to 7.44; typical RD 0.04, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.06; number needed to treat for an additional harmful outcome (NNTH) 25, 95% CI 17 to 50; 12 studies; 1523 infants), but overall, fewer infants receiving plastic wrap were outside the normothermic range (typical RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.69 to 0.81; typical RD -0.20, 95% CI -0.26 to -0.15; NNTH 5, 95% CI 4 to 7; five studies; 1048 infants).Evidence was insufficient to suggest that plastic wraps or bags significantly reduce risk of death during hospital stay or other major morbidities, with the exception of reducing risk of pulmonary haemorrhage.Evidence of practices regarding permutations on this general approach is still emerging and has been based on the findings of only one or two small studies.External heat sourcesEvidence is emerging on the efficacy of external heat sources, including skin-to-skin care (SSC) versus routine care (one study; 31 infants) and thermal mattress versus routine care (two studies; 126 infants).SSC was shown to be effective in reducing risk of hypothermia when compared with conventional incubator care for infants with birth weight ≥ 1200 and ≤ 2199 grams (RR 0.09, 95% CI 0.01 to 0.64; RD -0.56, 95% CI -0.84 to -0.27; NNTB 2, 95% CI 1 to 4). Thermal (transwarmer) mattress significantly kept infants ≤ 1500 grams warmer (MD 0.65°C, 95% CI 0.36 to 0.94) and reduced the incidence of hypothermia on admission to the NICU, with no significant difference in hyperthermia risk.Combinations of interventionsTwo studies (77 infants) compared thermal mattresses versus plastic wraps or bags for infants at ≤ 28 weeks' gestation. Investigators reported no significant differences in core body temperature nor in the incidence of hypothermia, hyperthermia, or core body temperature outside the normothermic range on admission to the NICU.Two additional studies (119 infants) compared plastic bags and thermal mattresses versus plastic bags alone for infants at < 31 weeks' gestation. Meta-analysis of these two studies showed improvement in core body temperature on admission to the NICU or up to two hours after birth, but an increase in hyperthermia. Data show no significant difference in the risk of having a core body temperature outside the normothermic range on admission to the NICU nor in the risk of other reported morbidities.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Evidence of moderate quality shows that use of plastic wraps or bags compared with routine care led to higher temperatures on admission to NICUs with less hypothermia, particularly for extremely preterm infants. Thermal mattresses and SSC also reduced hypothermia risk when compared with routine care, but findings are based on two or fewer small studies. Caution must be taken to avoid iatrogenic hyperthermia, particularly when multiple interventions are used simultaneously. Limited evidence suggests benefit and no evidence of harm for most short-term morbidity outcomes known to be associated with hypothermia, including major brain injury, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, retinopathy of prematurity, necrotising enterocolitis, and nosocomial infection. Many observational studies have shown increased mortality among preterm hypothermic infants compared with those who maintain normothermia, yet evidence is insufficient to suggest that these interventions reduce risk of in-hospital mortality across all comparison groups. Hypothermia may be a marker for illness and poorer outcomes by association rather than by causality. Limitations of this review include small numbers of identified studies; small sample sizes; and variations in methods and definitions used for hypothermia, hyperthermia, normothermia, routine care, and morbidity, along with lack of power to detect effects on morbidity and mortality across most comparison groups. Future studies should: be adequately powered to detect rarer outcomes; apply standardised morbidity definitions; focus on longer-term outcomes, particularly neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Golden hour of neonatal life: Need of the hour

"Golden Hour" of neonatal life is defined as the first hour of post-natal life in both preterm and term neonates. This concept in neonatology has been adopted from adult trauma where the initial first hour of trauma management is considered as golden hour. The "Golden hour" concept includes practicing all the evidence based intervention for term and preterm neonates, in the initial sixty minutes of postnatal life for better long-term outcome. Although the current evidence supports the concept of golden hour in preterm and still there is no evidence seeking the benefit of golden hour approach in term neonates, but neonatologist around the globe feel the importance of golden hour concept equally in both preterm and term neonates. Initial first hour of neonatal life includes neonatal resuscitation, post-resuscitation care, transportation of sick newborn to neonatal intensive care unit, respiratory and cardiovascular support and initial course in nursery. The studies that evaluated the concept of golden hour in preterm neonates showed marked reduction in hypothermia, hypoglycemia, intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). In this review article, we will discuss various components of neonatal care that are included in "Golden hour" of preterm and term neonatal care.

Polyethylene versus cotton cap as an adjunct to body wrap in preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Occlusive body wrap using polyethylene plastic applied immediately after birth had been shown to reduce hypothermia among preterm infants. Various adjunct methods have been studied in an attempt to further reduce the incidence of hypothermia. This study was conducted to determine whether polyethylene cap is more effective than cotton cap as an adjunct to polyethylene occlusive body wrap in reducing hypothermia in preterm infants.

METHODS

The subjects consisted of preterm infants 24-34 weeks' gestation born at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre. Infants were randomly assigned to NeoCap or control groups. Infants in both groups were wrapped in polyethylene sheets from the neck downwards immediately after birth without prior drying. Infants in the control group had their heads dried and subsequently covered with cotton caps while infants in the NeoCap group had polyethylene caps put on without drying. Axillary temperature was measured on admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and after having been stabilized in the incubator.

RESULTS

Among the 80 infants recruited, admission hypothermia (axillary temperature <36.5°C) was present in 37 (92.5%) and in 40 (100%) in the NeoCap and control groups, respectively. There was no significant difference in mean temperature on NICU admission between the two groups (35.3 vs 35.1°C, P = 0.36). Mean post-stabilization temperature, however, was significantly higher in the NeoCap group (36.0 vs 35.5°C, P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Combined use of polyethylene body wrap and polyethylene cap was associated with a significantly higher mean post-stabilization temperature compared with polyethylene body wrap and cotton cap.

Golden 60 minutes of newborn's life: Part 1: Preterm neonate

"Golden 60 minutes "or "Golden Hour" is defined as the first hour of the newborn after birth. This hour includes resuscitation care, transport to nursery from place of birth and course in nursery. The concept of "Golden hour" includes evidence based interventions that are done in the first 60 min of postnatal life for the better long term outcome of the preterm newborn especially extreme premature, extreme low birth weight and very low birth weight. The evidence shows that the concept of "Golden 60 minutes" leads to reduction in neonatal complications like hypothermia, hypoglycemia, intraventricular hemorrhage, chronic lung disease and retinopathy of prematurity. In this review, we have covered various interventions included in "Golden hour" for preterm newborn namely delayed cord clamping, prevention of hypothermia, respiratory and cardiovascular system support, prevention of sepsis, nutritional support and communication with family.

Morbidity and mortality associated with rewarming hypothermic very low birth weight infants

OBJECTIVES

In very low birthweight (VLBW) infants, hypothermia is associated with poor outcomes. The goal of this study is to assess the relationship between the rate of rewarming these babies and their outcomes.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of 98 inborn VLBW infants who were hypothermic (<36°C rectally) upon admission to the NICU. A logistic regression model was used to examine the relationship between the rates of rewarming and time to achieve euthermia and the following outcomes: death, intraventricular hemorrhage, severe intraventricular hemorrhage, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis and retinopathy of prematurity.

RESULTS

Prolonged rewarming time was associate with increased odds of mortality (OR 1.273 95% CI 1.032-1.571). No associations between rewarming rates and any of the outcomes were seen. Once birthweight was included in a multiple logistic regression model, the association between mortality and rewarming time was no longer significant. Outcomes that were not associated with either rate or time of rewarming (even in a univariate model) were: bronchopulmonary dysplasia, intraventricular hemorrhage, severe intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis and retinopathy of prematurity.

CONCLUSION

In moderately hypothermic VLBW infants, after accounting for birthweight, no association between rewarming and outcome is seen.

Admission Hypothermia in Very Preterm Infants and Neonatal Mortality and Morbidity

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between body temperature at admission to neonatal intensive care and in-hospital mortality in very preterm infants, stratified by postnatal age of death. Moreover, we assessed the association between admission temperature and neonatal morbidity.

STUDY DESIGN

In this cohort study from 19 regions in 11 European countries, we measured body temperature at admission for infants admitted for neonatal care after very preterm birth (<32 weeks of gestation; n = 5697) who were followed to discharge or death. Associations between body temperature at admission and in-hospital mortality and neonatal morbidity were analyzed by the use of mixed effects generalized linear models. The final model adjusted for pregnancy complications, singleton or multiple pregnancy, antenatal corticosteroids, mode of delivery, gestational age, infant size and sex, and Apgar score <7 at 5 minutes.

RESULTS

A total of 53.4% of the cohort had a body temperature at admission less than 36.5°C, and 12.9% below 35.5°C. In the adjusted model, an admission temperature <35.5°C was associated with increased mortality at postnatal ages 1-6 days, (risk ratio 2.41; 95% CI 1.45-4.00), and 7-28 days (risk ratio 1.79; 1.15-2.78) but not after 28 days of age. We found no associations between admission temperature and neonatal morbidity.

CONCLUSION

Admission hypothermia after very preterm birth is a significant problem in Europe, associated with an increased risk of early and late neonatal death.

Efficacy and Safety of Plastic Wrap for Prevention of Hypothermia after Birth and during NICU in Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of plastic wrap applied after birth and during NICU in preterm infants for prevention of heat loss in preterm infants.

STUDY METHODS

The Medline (1950 to August 2015), the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, Issue 7, 2015), CINAHL (1982 to August 2015) and the Embase (1974 to August 2015) databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or quasi-RCTs with main outcomes related to the core temperature (baseline temperature and/or post-stabilization temperature), hypothermia, mortality rate and hyperthermia.

RESULT

The included studies were of low to moderate quality. Compared with unwrapped infants, plastic wrap was associated with a significantly higher baseline temperature and post-stabilization temperature both in infants < 28 weeks of gestation (mean difference [MD] = 0.62, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.85; MD = 0.41, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.50, respectively), and in infants between 28 to 34 weeks of gestation (MD = 0.54, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.87; MD = 0.64, 95% CI 0.45 to 0.82, respectively). Use of plastic wrap was associated with lower incidence of hypothermia (relative risk [RR] = 0.70, 95% CI 0.63 to 0.78). However, use of plastic wrap in preterm infants was not associated with decrease in mortality (RR: 0.88, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.12, P = 0.31). Incidence of hyperthermia was significantly higher in the plastic wrap group as compared to that in the control group (RR = 2.55, 95% CI: 1.56 to 4.15, P = 0.0002). Hyperthermia in the plastic wrap group was resolved within one or two hours after unwrapping the babies.

CONCLUSION

Plastic wrap can be considered an effective and safe additional intervention to prevent hypothermia in preterm infants. However, its cost-effectiveness and long-term effect on mortality needs to be ascertained by conducting well-designed studies with longer follow-up period.

The effect of coverings, including plastic bags and wraps, on mortality and morbidity in preterm and full-term neonates

Neonatal hypothermia is an important risk factor for mortality and morbidity, and is common even in temperate climates. We conducted a systematic review to determine whether plastic coverings, used immediately following delivery, were effective in reducing the incidence of mortality, hypothermia and morbidity. A total of 26 studies (2271 preterm and 1003 term neonates) were included. Meta-analyses were conducted as appropriate. Plastic wraps were associated with a reduction in hypothermia in preterm (⩽29 weeks; risk ratio (RR)=0.57; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.46 to 0.71) and term neonates (RR=0.76; 95% CI 0.60 to 0.96). No significant reduction in neonatal mortality or morbidity was found; however, the studies were underpowered for these outcomes. For neonates, especially preterm, plastic wraps combined with other environmental heat sources are effective in reducing hypothermia during stabilization and transfer within hospital. Further research is needed to quantify the effects on mortality or morbidity, and investigate the use of plastic coverings outside hospital settings or without additional heat sources.

Practicability of avoiding hypothermia in resuscitation room phase in severely injured patients

Hypothermia in severely injured patients is a high demanding situation resulting from an effect of injury severity, surrounding temperature at trauma site and admittance. This article reviews the possible options to combat hypothermia in the resuscitation room with respect to practicability. This review summarizes available passive and active re-warming techniques and trys to offer a practicable chronology to restore normothermia. Resources should be applied depending on the availability of each institution and manifestation of hypothermia, but there is a strong demand for improvements with respect to practicability, convenience and safety for the patient.