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Bansal S, Molloy EJ, Rogers E, Bidegain M, Pilon B, Hurley T, Lemmon ME. Families as partners in neonatal neuro-critical care programs. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-024-03257-6. [PMID: 38886506 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03257-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
Parents of neonates with neurologic conditions face a specific breadth of emotional, logistical, and social challenges, including difficulties coping with prognostic uncertainty, the need to make complex medical decisions, and navigating new hopes and fears. These challenges place parents in a vulnerable position and at risk of developing mental health issues, which can interfere with bonding and caring for their neonate, as well as compromise their neonate's long-term neurodevelopment. To optimize neurologic and developmental outcomes, emerging neonatal neuro-critical care (NNCC) programs must concurrently attend to the unique needs of the developing newborn brain and of his/her parents. This can only be accomplished by embracing a family-centered care environment-one which prioritizes effective parent-clinician communication, longitudinal parent support, and parents as equitable partners in clinical care. NNCC programs offer a multifaceted approach to critical care for neonates at-risk for neurodevelopmental impairments, integrating expertise in neonatology and neurology. This review highlights evidence-based strategies to guide NNCC programs in developing a family-partnered approach to care, including primary staffing models; staff communication, implicit bias, and cultural competency trainings; comprehensive and tailored caregiver training; single-family rooms; flexible visitation policies; colocalized neonatal and maternal care; uniform mental health screenings; follow-up care referrals; and connections to peer support. IMPACT: Parents of neonates with neurologic conditions are at high-risk for experiencing mental health issues, which can adversely impact the parent-neonate relationship and long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes of their neonates. While guidelines to promote families as partners in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) have been developed, no protocols integrate the unique needs of parents in neonatal neurologic populations. A holistic approach that makes families true partners in the care of their neonate with a neurologic condition in the NICU has the potential to improve mental and physical well-being for both parents and neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simran Bansal
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Eleanor J Molloy
- Paediatric Research Laboratory, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute (TTMI), St. James' Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Discipline of Paediatrics, Dublin Trinity College, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Trinity Research in Childhood Centre (TriCC), Children's Health Ireland & Coombe Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elizabeth Rogers
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Margarita Bidegain
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Tim Hurley
- Paediatric Research Laboratory, Trinity Translational Medicine Institute (TTMI), St. James' Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
- Discipline of Paediatrics, Dublin Trinity College, The University of Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Monica E Lemmon
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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Li X, Wang Y, Zhang Q. Effect of a physician-nurse integrated lung protection care model in neurocritical patients. Prev Med Rep 2024; 39:102637. [PMID: 38348217 PMCID: PMC10859279 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmedr.2024.102637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Lung injury resulting from diffuse pulmonary interstitial and other lung-related complications is a significant contributor to poor prognosis and mortality in patients with critical neurological diseases. To enhance patient outcomes, it is essential to investigate a lung protection model that involves the collaboration of doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals. Methods Patients receiving different care styles were divided into two groups: routine care (RC) and lung function protection care (LFPC). The LFPC group included airway and posture management, sedation and analgesia management, positive end-expiratory pressure titration in ventilation management, and fluid volume management, among others. Statistical analysis methods, such as chi-square, were used to compare the incidence of acute lung injury (ALI), neurogenic pulmonary edema (NPE), ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and length of stay between the RC and LFPC groups. Results The RC group included 68 patients (33 males; 34-74 years of age). The LFPC group included 60 patients (29 males; 37-73 years of age). Compared with the RC group, the LFPC group had lower occurrence rates of ALI (20.0 % vs. 38.2 %, P = 0.024), NPE (8.3 % vs. 23.5 %, P = 0.021), VAP (8.3 % vs. 25.0 %, P = 0.013), and ARDS (1.7 % vs. 16.2 %, P = 0.015). The length of hospital stay was shorter in the LFPC group than in the RC group (11.3 ± 3.5 vs. 14.3 ± 4.4 days, P = 0.0001). Conclusion The physician-nurse integrated lung protection care model proved to be effective in improving outcomes, reducing complications, and shortening the hospital stay length for neurocritical patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Li
- Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit, Xijing Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi 'an 710032, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit, Xijing Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi 'an 710032, China
| | - Qian Zhang
- Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit, Xijing Hospital, the Fourth Military Medical University, Xi 'an 710032, China
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES Many serious or life-threatening neurologic conditions are first diagnosed during the fetal period, often following a routine ultrasound or sonographic evaluation after an abnormal aneuploidy screen. Such conditions represent a worrisome or unexpected finding for expectant parents, making the perinatal period a critical time point to engage and empower families encountering complex neurologic clinical scenarios. This review covers the role of perinatal palliative care in these settings. STUDY DESIGN This study is a topical review RESULTS: The prenatal identification of structural abnormalities of the brain or spinal cord, radiographic signs of hemorrhage or ischemic injury, or evidence of genetic or metabolic conditions should prompt involvement of a fetal palliative care team. The inherent prognostic uncertainty is challenging for prenatally diagnosed neurologic conditions which have difficult to predict short and long-term outcomes. While many of these conditions lead to the birth of an infant with neurodevelopmental challenges, few result in in utero demise. Palliative care beginning in the perinatal period provides an additional layer of support for families navigating complex decision-making during their pregnancy and provides continuity of care into the newborn period. Palliative care principles can help guide discussions around genetic and other diagnostic testing, fetal surgery, and birth planning. A multidisciplinary team can help support families with decision-making and through bereavement care in the setting of fetal or neonatal death. CONCLUSION Early palliative care team involvement can provide a more holistic approach to counseling, facilitate planning, and ensure that a family's goals and wishes are acknowledged throughout an infant's care trajectory. KEY POINTS · Many serious or life-threatening neurologic conditions are diagnosed during the fetal period.. · Palliative care principles should be incorporated in the fetal period for affected patients.. · Palliative care clinicians can aid parents and clinicians in shared decision-making.. · Palliative care principles should be employed by all care providers in relevant cases..
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharla Rent
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Monica E. Lemmon
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Sarah Ellestad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Margarita Bidegain
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
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Rent S, Bidegain M, Lemmon ME. Neonatal neuropalliative care. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 191:185-199. [PMID: 36599508 PMCID: PMC10615113 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-824535-4.00008-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Neonatal neuropalliative care is directed toward patients and families impacted by serious, life limiting, or debilitating neurologic illness in the antenatal and newborn period. This chapter will outline key considerations for clinicians hoping to provide a neuropalliative care approach antenatally, at birth, and in the neonatal intensive care unit. We focus on three core domains: (1) family-centered communication and care, (2) prognostication and decision-making, and (3) pain and symptom management. In each domain, we outline key considerations in the antenatal period, at birth, and in the neonatal intensive care unit. We also address special considerations in care at the end of life and in varied cultural and practice contexts. We conclude with suggestions for future research and key considerations for neonatal clinicians who wish to incorporate a neuropalliative approach to care into their practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharla Rent
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Margarita Bidegain
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Monica E Lemmon
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States; Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States.
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Lin L, Liu W, Mu J, Zhan E, Wei H, Hong S, Hua Z. Effect of neonatal neuronal intensive care unit on neonatal encephalopathy. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261837. [PMID: 34972144 PMCID: PMC8719725 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Prophylaxis of brain injury in newborns has been a main concern since the first neonatal neuronal intensive care unit (NNICU) was established in the world in 2008. The aim of this study was to outline and evaluate the unit's development by analyzing the demographics of the patients, the services delivered, the short-term outcomes before and after the establishment of NNICU. During the two investigation periods, 384 newborns were diagnosed or suspected as "neonatal encephalopathy", among which 185 patients admitted to NNICU between 2011.03.01 and 2012.09.30 before the establishment of NNICU were enrolled in the pre-NNICU group, another 199 neonates hospitalized during 2018.03.01 to 2019.09.30 were included in the post-NNICU group. Patients in the post-NNICU group were more likely to have seizures (P = 0.001), incomplete or absent primitive reflexes (P = 0.002), therapeutic hypothermia (P<0.001) and liquid control (P<0.001) in acute phase. Meanwhile, amplitude-integrated electro encephalogram (aEEG) monitoring (P<0.001) and cranial ultrasound (P<0.001) were more often used in NNICU. Both of the follow-up rate in brain MRI and the assessment of neurodevelopment at 3 months were higher in the post-NNICU group (P<0.001). In conclusion, the NNICU focused on the neonatal neurocritical care for the babies susceptible to NE with the guidance of evidence-based medicine, the establishment of NNICU is gradually improving and standardizing the neuroprotective therapy and clinical follow-up to improve neurodevelopmental prognosis of the NE patients in CHCMU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Lin
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Health and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R China
| | - Weiqin Liu
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Health and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R China
| | - Jing Mu
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Health and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R China
| | - Enmei Zhan
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Health and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R China
| | - Hong Wei
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Health and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R China
| | - Siqi Hong
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Health and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R China
- Department of Neurology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ziyu Hua
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders, China International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Child Development and Critical Disorders, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Child Health and Nutrition, Children’s Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, P.R China
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Lemmon ME, Wusthoff CJ, Boss RD, Rasmussen LA. Ethical considerations in the care of encephalopathic neonates treated with therapeutic hypothermia. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2021; 26:101258. [PMID: 34176763 PMCID: PMC8627487 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2021.101258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Engaging with ethical issues is central to the management of neonatal encephalopathy (NE). As treatment for these neonates evolves, new ethical issues will arise and many existing challenges will remain. We highlight three key ethical issues that arise in the care of neonates with NE treated with therapeutic hypothermia: facilitating shared decision making, understanding futility, and defining the boundaries between standard of care and research. Awareness of these issues will help clinicians counsel families in light of evolving treatments and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica E. Lemmon
- Division of Pediatric Neurology and Developmental Medicine, Departments of Pediatrics and Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, DUMC 3936, Durham, NC, 27710, USA,Corresponding author. (M.E. Lemmon)
| | - Courtney J. Wusthoff
- Departments of Neurology and Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, 750 Welch Road, Suite 317, Palo Alto, CA, 94304, USA
| | - Renee D. Boss
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics, 200 N. Wolfe St, Suite 2019, Baltimore, MD, 21287, United States
| | - Lisa Anne Rasmussen
- Division of Palliative Care, Department of Family Medicine, Department of Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont, UVM Medical Center Palliative Care, 111 Colchester Avenue, Main Campus, Smith 262, Burlington, VT, 05401-1473, USA.
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Kramer K, Bekmezian A, Nash K, Papp E, Glass HC. Expediting Treatment of Seizures in the Intensive Care Nursery. Pediatrics 2021; 148:peds.2020-013730. [PMID: 34380776 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2020-013730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Prolonged neonatal seizures are associated with poor neurodevelopmental outcomes. The aim of this quality improvement project was to decrease the time to medical treatment of seizures by 45% within 15 months for neonates admitted to the intensive care nursery (ICN) in an academic children's hospital. METHODS A multidisciplinary team developed key drivers for timely treatment of seizures. Targeted interventions included optimizing a seizure rescue process with a mechanism that brings a pharmacist to the bedside for expedited medication delivery, in addition to interactive educational sessions. The outcome measure was time from the decision to treat seizures to medication administration. The process measure was use of the seizure rescue process with a balancing measure of unnecessary activations of this process. Data were collected from monthly chart review and displayed on statistical process control charts for analysis. The intervention period was from January 2019 to March 2020. RESULTS Between January 2016 and March 2020, there were 203 seizure treatment events (160 preintervention and 43 postintervention) in the ICN. Time to treatment of neonatal seizures decreased by 48%, from a baseline of 27 minutes (January 2016 to December 2018) to 14 minutes by March 2020, which reflected significant and sustained improvement. This was associated with improvement in the process metric during the same time periods. Unnecessary seizure rescue process activations were stable postintervention. CONCLUSIONS Implementation of an innovative seizure rescue process, in conjunction with staff and provider education, expedited antiseizure therapy in the ICN without requiring code resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelin Kramer
- Departments of Pediatrics .,UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, California
| | - Arpi Bekmezian
- Departments of Pediatrics.,UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, California
| | - Kendall Nash
- Departments of Pediatrics.,Neurology, Weil Institute for Neurosciences.,UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, California
| | - Elizabeth Papp
- UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, California
| | - Hannah C Glass
- Departments of Pediatrics.,Neurology, Weil Institute for Neurosciences.,Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California.,UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, California
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From Neonatal Intensive Care to Neurocritical Care: Is It Still a Mirage? The Sicilian Multicenter Project. Crit Care Res Pract 2021; 2021:1782406. [PMID: 34426771 PMCID: PMC8380151 DOI: 10.1155/2021/1782406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neonatal brain injury (NBI) can lead to a significant neurological disability or even death. After decades of intense efforts to improve neonatal intensive care and survival of critically ill newborns, the focus today is an improved long-term neurological outcome through brain-focused care. The goal of neuroprotection in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is the prevention of new or worsening NBI in premature and term newborns. As a result, the neonatal neurocritical care unit (NNCU) has been emerging as a model of care to decrease NBI and improve the long-term neurodevelopment in critically ill neonates. Purpose Neurocritical care (NCC) Sicilian project includes three academic sites with NICU in Sicily (Catania, Messina, and Palermo), and its primary goal is to develop neurocritical neonatal care unit (NNCU). Methods In 2018, the three NICUs created a dedicated space for neonates with primary neurological diagnosis or at risk for neurological injuries—NNCU. Admission criteria for eligible patients and treatment protocols were created. Contact with parents, environmental protection, basic monitoring, brain monitoring, pharmacological therapy, and organization of the staff were protocolized. Results Evaluation of the efforts to establish NNCU within existing NICU, current protocols, and encountered problems are shown. Implications for Practice. Our outcome confirmed the need for dedicated NNCU for neuroprotection of critically ill neonates at risk for a neurological injury. Although the literature on neonatal neurocritical care is still scarce, we see the value of such targeted approach to newborn brain protection and therefore we will continue developing our NNCU, even though there have been problems encountered. The project of building NNCU will continue to be closely monitored. Conclusions The development of our neonatal neurocritical model of care is far from being completed. Although it is currently limited to the Sicilian area only, the goal of this paper is to share the development of this multicenter interdisciplinary project focused on a newborn brain protection. After evaluating our outcome, we strongly believe that a combined expertise in neonatal neurology and neonatal critical care can lead to an improved neurodevelopmental outcome for critically ill neonates, from the extremely preterm to those with brain injuries.
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Garcia-Alix A, Arnaez J. Neonatal neurology, a crucial discipline to enhance neurologic care of the newborn. Acta Paediatr 2020; 109:2451-2453. [PMID: 32181925 DOI: 10.1111/apa.15258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Garcia-Alix
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu, Hospital Sant Joan de Dèu, Barcelona, Spain.,Universidad de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Fundación NeNe, Madrid, Spain.,Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Raras, Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan Arnaez
- Fundación NeNe, Madrid, Spain.,Unidad de Neonatología, Hospital Universitario Burgos, Burgos, Spain
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Carrasco M, Stafstrom CE, Tekes A, Parkinson C, Northington FJ. The Johns Hopkins Neurosciences Intensive Care Nursery Tenth Anniversary (2009-2019): A Historical Reflection and Vision for the Future. Child Neurol Open 2020; 7:2329048X20907761. [PMID: 32215280 PMCID: PMC7081468 DOI: 10.1177/2329048x20907761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Since 2009, the Neurosciences Intensive Care Nursery at Johns Hopkins Children’s Center has provided a multidisciplinary approach toward the care of newborns with neurological disorders. The program’s cornerstone is an interdisciplinary approach that involves the primary neonatology team plus experts from more than 10 specialties who convene at a weekly team conference at which newborns with neurological problems are discussed in detail. This interdisciplinary approach fosters in-depth discussion of clinical issues to optimize the management of neonates with neurological problems as well as the opportunity to generate research ideas and provide education about neonatal neuroscience at all levels (faculty, nurses, and trainees). The purpose of this article is to provide a 10-year reflection of our Neurosciences Intensive Care Nursery with a view toward expanding efforts in the 3 areas of our mission: clinical care, research, and education. We hope that our experience will enhance the spread of neonatal neuroscience education, care, and research as widely as possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melisa Carrasco
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Carl E Stafstrom
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Aylin Tekes
- Division of Pediatric Radiology and Pediatric Neuroradiology, Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Charla Parkinson
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Frances J Northington
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
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11
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Continuous Electroencephalography Monitoring for Critically Ill Neonates: A Canadian Perspective. Neurol Sci 2019; 46:394-402. [PMID: 31030685 DOI: 10.1017/cjn.2019.36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Continuous EEG monitoring, in the form of amplitude-integrated (aEEG) or conventional EEG (cEEG), is used in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to detect subclinical central nervous system pathologies, inform management, and prognosticate neurodevelopmental outcomes. To learn more about provider attitudes and current practices in Canada, we evaluated neurologist and neonatologist opinions regarding NICU EEG monitoring. METHODS A 15-item electronic questionnaire was distributed to 114 pediatric neurologists and 176 neonatologists working across 25 sites. RESULTS The survey was completed by 87 of 290 physicians. Continuous EEG monitoring is utilized by 97% of pediatric neurologists and 92% of neonatologists. Neurologists and neonatologists differ in their EEG monitoring preferences. For seizure detection and diagnosis of encephalopathy, significantly more neonatologists favor aEEG alone or in combination with cEEG, whereas most neurologists prefer cEEG (p = 0.047, 0.001). There is a significant difference in the perceived gaps in monitoring patients with cEEG between neonatologists (13% would monitor more) and neurologists (41% would monitor more) (p = 0.007). Half of all respondents (53%) reported that they would be interested in attending an education session on neonatal EEG monitoring. CONCLUSIONS Canadian neurologists and neonatologists do not agree on the best monitoring approach for critically ill neonates. Furthermore, neonatologists perceive a smaller cEEG monitoring gap as compared with neurologists. However, many participants from both specialties would like to increase long-term EEG monitoring in the NICU setting. Facilitating access to EEG monitoring and enhancing education may help to address these needs.
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12
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Buttle SG, Lemyre B, Sell E, Redpath S, Bulusu S, Webster RJ, Pohl D. Combined Conventional and Amplitude-Integrated EEG Monitoring in Neonates: A Prospective Study. J Child Neurol 2019; 34:313-320. [PMID: 30761936 DOI: 10.1177/0883073819829256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE Seizure monitoring via amplitude-integrated EEG is standard of care in many neonatal intensive care units; however, conventional EEG is the gold standard for seizure detection. We compared the diagnostic yield of amplitude-integrated EEG interpreted at the bedside, amplitude-integrated EEG interpreted by an expert, and conventional EEG. METHODS Neonates requiring seizure monitoring received amplitude-integrated EEG and conventional EEG in parallel. Clinical events and amplitude-integrated EEG were interpreted at bedside. Subsequently, amplitude-integrated EEG and conventional EEG were independently analyzed by experienced neonatology and neurology readers. Sensitivity and specificity of bedside amplitude-integrated EEG as compared to expert amplitude-integrated EEG interpretation and conventional EEG were evaluated. RESULTS Thirteen neonates were monitored for an average duration of 33 hours (range 15-94, SD 25). Fourteen seizure-like events were detected by clinical observation, and 12 others by bedside amplitude-integrated EEG analysis. One of the clinical, and none of the bedside amplitude-integrated EEG events were confirmed as seizures on conventional EEG. Post hoc expert amplitude-integrated EEG interpretation revealed eight suspected seizures, all different from the ones detected by the bedside amplitude-integrated EEG team, of which one was confirmed via conventional EEG. Eight seizures were recorded on conventional EEG. Expert amplitude-integrated EEG interpretation had a sensitivity of 13% with 46% specificity for individual seizure detection, and a sensitivity of 50% with 46% specificity for detecting patients with seizures. CONCLUSION Real-world bedside amplitude-integrated EEG monitoring failed to detect all seizures evidenced via conventional EEG, while misclassifying other events as seizures. Even post hoc expert amplitude-integrated EEG interpretation provided limited sensitivity and specificity. Considering the poor sensitivity and specificity of bedside amplitude-integrated EEG interpretation, combined monitoring may provide limited clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Grace Buttle
- 1 Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brigitte Lemyre
- 2 Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,3 Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Erick Sell
- 1 Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,3 Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephanie Redpath
- 2 Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,3 Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Srinivas Bulusu
- 4 Neurophysiology Laboratory, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Richard J Webster
- 5 Clinical Research Unit, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniela Pohl
- 1 Division of Neurology, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,3 Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW With the advent of therapeutic hypothermia for treatment of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, and improvements in neuroimaging and bedside neuromonitoring, a new era of neonatal brain-focused care has emerged in recent years. We describe the development of the first neurointensive care nursery (NICN) as a model for comanagement of neonates with identified neurologic risk factors by a multidisciplinary team constituted of neurologists, neonatologists, specialized nurses, and others with the goal of optimizing management, preventing secondary injury and maximizing long-term outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS Optimizing brain metabolic environment and perfusion and preventing secondary brain injury are key to neurocritical care. This includes close management of temperature, blood pressure, oxygenation, carbon dioxide, and glucose levels. Early developmental interventions and involvement of physical and occupational therapy provide additional assessment information. Finally, long-term follow-up is essential for any neurocritical care program. SUMMARY The NICN model aims to optimize evidence-based care of infants at risk for neurologic injury. Results from ongoing hypothermia and neuroprotective trials are likely to yield additional treatments. New technologies, such as functional MRI, continuous neurophysiological assessment, and whole genomic approaches to rapid diagnosis may further enhance clinical protocols and neonatal precision medicine. Importantly, advances in neurocritical care improve our ability to provide comprehensive information when counseling families. Long-term follow-up data will determine if the NICN/Neuro-NICU provides enduring benefit to infants at risk for neurologic injury.
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14
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Dizon MLV, Rao R, Hamrick SE, Zaniletti I, DiGeronimo R, Natarajan G, Kaiser JR, Flibotte J, Lee KS, Smith D, Yanowitz T, Mathur AM, Massaro AN. Practice variation in anti-epileptic drug use for neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy among regional NICUs. BMC Pediatr 2019; 19:67. [PMID: 30813933 PMCID: PMC6391819 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-019-1441-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 02/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While intercenter variation (ICV) in anti-epileptic drug (AED) use in neonates with seizures has been previously reported, variation in AED practices across regional NICUs has not been specifically and systematically evaluated. This is important as these centers typically have multidisciplinary neonatal neurocritical care teams and protocolized approaches to treating conditions such as hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), a population at high risk for neonatal seizures. To identify opportunities for quality improvement (QI), we evaluated ICV in AED utilization for neonates with HIE treated with therapeutic hypothermia (TH) across regional NICUs in the US. Methods Children’s Hospital Neonatal Database and Pediatric Health Information Systems data were linked for 1658 neonates ≥36 weeks’ gestation, > 1800 g birthweight, with HIE treated with TH, from 20 NICUs, between 2010 and 2016. ICV in AED use was evaluated using a mixed-effect regression model. Rates of AED exposure, duration, prescription at discharge and standardized AED costs per patient were calculated as different measures of utilization. Results Ninety-five percent (range: 83–100%) of patients with electrographic seizures, and 26% (0–81%) without electrographic seizures, received AEDs. Phenobarbital was most frequently used (97.6%), followed by levetiracetam (16.9%), phenytoin/fosphenytoin (15.6%) and others (2.4%; oxcarbazepine, topiramate and valproate). There was significant ICV in all measures of AED utilization. Median cost of AEDs per patient was $89.90 (IQR $24.52,$258.58). Conclusions Amongst Children’s Hospitals, there is marked ICV in AED utilization for neonatal HIE. Variation was particularly notable for HIE patients without electrographic seizures, indicating that this population may be an appropriate target for QI processes to harmonize neuromonitoring and AED practices across centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria L V Dizon
- Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago and Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, 225 East Chicago Ave, Box 45, Chicago, IL, 60611, USA.
| | - Rakesh Rao
- Washington University, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | | | - Robert DiGeronimo
- Seattle Children's Hospital/University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | - John Flibotte
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | | | - Toby Yanowitz
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - An N Massaro
- Children's National Health Systems, Washington, DC, USA
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15
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Vollmer B. Neonatal neurology: bridging the gap. Dev Med Child Neurol 2019; 61:5. [PMID: 30537142 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Vollmer
- Clinical Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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16
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Neonatal encephalopathy is the most common condition in neonates encountered by child neurologists. The etiology is most often global hypoxia-ischemia due to failure of cerebral perfusion to the fetus caused by uterine, placental, or umbilical cord compromise prior to or during delivery. Other etiologies of neonatal encephalopathy include ischemic stroke and intracranial hemorrhage, infection, developmental anomalies, and inborn errors of metabolism. RECENT FINDINGS Therapeutic hypothermia is standard of care for the treatment of neonatal encephalopathy presumed to be caused by hypoxia-ischemia. The number needed to treat is approximately 6 to 7 to prevent one child from either death or disability at age 18 to 22 months. EEG monitoring and MRI are important tools in determining the etiology of encephalopathy and prognosis of the infant. SUMMARY Neonatal encephalopathy is a heterogeneous disorder that is characterized by alterations in mental status, hypotonia, seizures, and abnormalities in feeding and respiration. The most common cause of neonatal encephalopathy is hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, for which treatment with 72 hours of therapeutic hypothermia is associated with reduced death or disability.
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17
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Lemmon ME, Boss RD, Bonifacio SL, Foster-Barber A, Barkovich AJ, Glass HC. Characterization of Death in Neonatal Encephalopathy in the Hypothermia Era. J Child Neurol 2017; 32:360-365. [PMID: 28193115 PMCID: PMC5359080 DOI: 10.1177/0883073816681904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to characterize the circumstances of death in encephalopathic neonates treated with therapeutic hypothermia. Patients who died after or during treatment with therapeutic hypothermia between 2007-2014 were identified. Patient circumstance of death was characterized using an established paradigm. Thirty-one of 229 patients died (14%) at a median of 3 days of life. Most who died were severely encephalopathic on examination (90%) and had severely abnormal electroencephalographic (EEG) findings (87%). All those who had magnetic resonance images (n = 13) had evidence of moderate-severe brain injury; 6 had near-total brain injury. Cooling was discontinued prematurely in 61% of patients. Most patients (90%) were physiologically stable at the time of death; 81% died following elective extubation for quality of life considerations. Three patients (10%) died following withholding or removal of artificial hydration and nutrition. Characterization of death in additional cohorts is needed to identify differences in decision making practices over time and between centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica E. Lemmon
- Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC
- Department of Neurology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD
| | - Renee D. Boss
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, The Johns Hopkins Hospital
- Johns Hopkins Berman Institute of Bioethics
| | | | - Audrey Foster-Barber
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - A. James Barkovich
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Department of Radiology and Biomedical Imaging, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Hannah C. Glass
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Department of Neurology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA
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18
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Abstract
Neonatal neurocritical care is an emerging subspecialty that combines the expertise of critical care medicine and neurology with that of nursing and other providers in an interprofessional team approach to care. Neurocritical care of the neonate has roots in adult and pediatric practice. It has been demonstrated that adults with acute neurologic conditions who are treated in a specialized neurocritical care unit have reduced morbidity and mortality, as well as decreased length of stay, lower costs, and reduced need for neurosurgical procedures. In pediatrics, neurocritical care has focused on various primary and secondary neurologic conditions complicating critical care that also contribute to mortality, morbidity, and duration of hospitalization. However, the concept of neurocritical care as a subspecialty in pediatric practice is still evolving, and evidence demonstrating improved outcomes is lacking. In the neonatal intensive care nursery, neurocritical care is also evolving as a subspecialty concept to address both supportive and preventive care and optimize neurologic outcomes for an at-risk neonatal patient population. To enhance effectiveness of this care approach, nurses must be prepared to appropriately recognize acute changes in neurologic status, implement protocols that specifically address neurologic conditions, and carefully monitor neurologic status to help prevent secondary injury. The complexity of this team approach to brain-focused care has led to the development of a specialized role: the neurocritical care nurse (neonatal intensive care nursery [NICN] nurse). This article will review key concepts related to neonatal neurocritical care and the essential role of nursing. It will also explore the emerging role of the NICN nurse in supporting early recognition and management of at-risk infants in this neonatal subspecialty practice.
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19
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Smyser CD, Tam EWY, Chang T, Soul JS, Miller SP, Glass HC. Fellowship Training in the Emerging Fields of Fetal-Neonatal Neurology and Neonatal Neurocritical Care. Pediatr Neurol 2016; 63:39-44.e3. [PMID: 27473650 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2016.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2016] [Revised: 05/31/2016] [Accepted: 06/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neonatal neurocritical care is a growing and rapidly evolving medical subspecialty, with increasing numbers of dedicated multidisciplinary clinical, educational, and research programs established at academic institutions. The growth of these programs has provided trainees in neurology, neonatology, and pediatrics with increased exposure to the field, sparking interest in dedicated fellowship training in fetal-neonatal neurology. OBJECTIVES To meet this rising demand, increasing numbers of training programs are being established to provide trainees with the requisite knowledge and skills to independently deliver care for infants with neurological injury or impairment from the fetal care center and neonatal intensive care unit to the outpatient clinic. This article provides an initial framework for standardization of training across these programs. RESULTS Recommendations include goals and objectives for training in the field; core areas where clinical competency must be demonstrated; training activities and neuroimaging and neurodiagnostic modalities which require proficiency; and programmatic requirements necessary to support a comprehensive and well-rounded training program. CONCLUSIONS With consistent implementation, the proposed model has the potential to establish recognized standards of professional excellence for training in the field, provide a pathway toward Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education certification for program graduates, and lead to continued improvements in medical and neurological care provided to patients in the neonatal intensive care unit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Smyser
- Department of Neurology, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri; Department of Pediatrics, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri; Department of Radiology, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri.
| | - Emily W Y Tam
- Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Taeun Chang
- Department of Neurology, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC
| | - Janet S Soul
- Department of Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Steven P Miller
- Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children and University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hannah C Glass
- Department of Neurology, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, California; Department of Pediatrics, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, California; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California, San Francisco, California
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20
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Glass HC, Rowitch DH. The Role of the Neurointensive Care Nursery for Neonatal Encephalopathy. Clin Perinatol 2016; 43:547-57. [PMID: 27524453 PMCID: PMC4988330 DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2016.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Neonatal encephalopathy due to intrapartum events is estimated at 1 to 2 per 1000 live births in high-income countries. Outcomes have improved over the past decade due to implementation of therapeutic hypothermia, the only clinically available neuroprotective strategy for hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Neonatal encephalopathy is the most common condition treated within a neonatal neurocritical care unit. Neonates with encephalopathy benefit from a neurocritical care approach due to prevention of secondary brain injury through attention to basic physiology, earlier recognition and treatment of neurologic complications, consistent management using guidelines and protocols, and use of optimized teams at dedicated referral centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah C Glass
- Department of Neurology, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California San Francisco, 675 Nelson Rising Lane, Room 494, Box 0663, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Pediatrics, Benioff Children's Hospital, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Department of Epidemiology & Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - David H. Rowitch
- Department of Pediatrics; Benioff Children’s Hospital, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
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21
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Lemmon ME, Bidegain M, Boss RD. Palliative care in neonatal neurology: robust support for infants, families and clinicians. J Perinatol 2016; 36:331-7. [PMID: 26658120 DOI: 10.1038/jp.2015.188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2015] [Revised: 10/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Infants with neurological injury and their families face unique challenges in the neonatal intensive care unit. As specialty palliative care support becomes increasingly available, we must consider how to intentionally incorporate palliative care principles into the care of infants with neurological injury. Here, we review data regarding neonatal symptom management, prognostic uncertainty, decision making, communication and parental support for neonatal neurology patients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- M E Lemmon
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Division of Pediatric Neurology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - M Bidegain
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - R D Boss
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.,Berman Institute of Bioethics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
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