Implementing palliative care, based on family-centered care, in a highly complex neonatal unit

Abstract Objective: To describe the causes and circumstances of neonatal mortality and determine whether the implementation of a palliative care protocol has improved the quality of end-of-life care. Methods: A retrospective observational study including all patient mortalities between January 2009 and December 2019. Cause of death and characteristics of support during the dying process were collected. Two periods, before and after the implementation of a palliative care protocol, were compared. Results: There were 344 deaths. Congenital malformations were the most frequent cause of death (45.6 %). Most patients died after the transition to palliative care (74.4 %). The most frequently cited criteria for initiating transition of care was poor neurocognitive prognosis (47.2 %). Parents accompanied their children in the dying process in 72 % of cases. Twenty-three percent of patients died outside the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit after being transferred to a private room to enhance family intimacy. After the addition of the palliative care protocol, statistically significant differences were observed in the support and patient experience during the dying process. Conclusions: The most frequent causes of death were severe congenital malformations. Most patients died accompanied by their parents after the transition to palliative care. The implementation of a palliative care protocol helped to improve the family-centered end-of-life care.

Correlation between nasal anatomical characteristics in newborns and short binasal prong dimensions

Abstract Objective: To correlate the nasal anatomical characteristics of newborns with the dimensions of short binasal prongs. Method: Observational, cross-sectional study carried out in two hospitals in southern Brazil. The authors evaluated 1620 newborns with neonatal data and nasal dimensions. To measure the dimensions of the nasal region, the authors considered the width of the medial columella, the right nostril diameter, and the left nostril diameter. These data were correlated with the dimensions of two models of short binasal prongs. Results: Of the total newborns evaluated, 807 were female (49.8%), and 813 were male (50.2%). The majority were white (96.2%). The mean gestational age was 37.4 ± 2.9 weeks, ranging from 22 to 42 weeks. The birth weight was 2946.8 ± 699.3 g, ranging from 490.0 to 4740.0 g. Most of the nasal measures were significantly larger than both prong model measurements. Conclusion: The sizes of short binasal prongs available on the Brazilian market do not match the nasal anatomical characteristics of newborns.

Acompañar una doble hospitalización en pandemia: la experiencia de padres con bebés hospitalizados mientras las madres se encuentran hospitalizadas por COVID-19 / Supporting a double hospitalization during the pandemic: The experience of fathers whose infants were hospitalized while their mothers were also hospitalized due to COVID-19

Introducción. La hospitalización de un hijo en la unidad de pacientes críticos neonatal puede ser altamente estresante para padres y madres, lo cual se intensificó en el contexto de la pandemia por COVID-19. A la fecha, no se han encontrado estudios que describan la experiencia de padres que vivieron la doble hospitalización simultánea de su pareja y de su hijo/a al nacer, durante la pandemia por COVID-19. Objetivos. Explorar la vivencia de los padres de tener a sus hijos/as hospitalizados en Neonatología mientras su pareja se encontraba hospitalizada por agravamiento de COVID-19. Población y método. Cuatro entrevistas semiestructuradas fueron realizadas y analizadas mediante un análisis interpretativo fenomenológico. Resultados. Se identificaron cuatro momentos cuando surgieron emociones específicas: a) inicio del contagio, b) hospitalización de la pareja, c) nacimiento del bebé y d) hospitalización del bebé. Culpa, miedo, angustia de muerte, soledad e incertidumbre aparecen muy tempranamente y luego se combinan con emociones como felicidad y empoderamiento, entre otras. La falta de contacto físico con sus parejas e hijos, y las fallas en la comunicación con los equipos de salud se destacan como factores que obstaculizan el ejercicio del rol paternal, mientras que una comunicación fluida con el equipo y una participación activa en los cuidados del bebé son factores protectores. Los padres cumplen una multiplicidad de roles, en la que prima el rol protector. Conclusiones. La comunicación y la atención centrada en la familia, y la participación activa en los cuidados de los bebés tienen el potencial de proteger contra el impacto de esta experiencia compleja de doble hospitalización.

Introduction. The hospitalization of a baby in the neonatal intensive care unit may be highly stressful for both mothers and fathers, and this was even more intense in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.To date, no studies have been found that describe the experience of fathers who underwent the simultaneous hospitalization of their partner and newborn infant during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objectives. To explore the experience of fathers who had their babies hospitalized in the Neonatal Unit while their partner were hospitalized due to worsening of COVID-19. Population and method. Four semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed using an interpretative phenomenological analysis. Results. Four moments were identified when specific emotions arose: a) onset of infection, b) partner hospitalization, c) baby birth, and d) baby hospitalization. Guilt, fear, death anxiety, loneliness, and uncertainty appear very early and are later combined with emotions such as happiness and empowerment, among others. The lack of physical contact with their partners and babies and failures in communication with the health care team stand out as factors that hinder the exercise of the paternal role, while an effective communication with the health care team and active participation in the baby's care are protective factors. Fathers fulfill multiple roles, the most important of which is their role as protectors. Conclusions. Family-centered communication and care and active involvement in baby care may potentially protect against the impact of this complex experience of double hospitalization.

Changes in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit statistics during the COVID-19 pandemic / Cambios en las estadísticas de una Terapia Intensiva Neonatal durante la pandemia COVID-19

Abstract Background: With the identification of COVID-19 disease in China, a pandemic began that affected health-care systems. The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of the Hospital de Ginecobstetricia del Centro Médico Nacional de Occidente experienced an increase in patient flow as part of the COVID-19 strategy of the Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS). This study aimed to analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on neonatal care and mortality indicators in our unit. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study to compare the number of hospital births, pre-term newborns (PTNB), NICU admissions, and deaths. Changes in frequencies between 2019 and 2021 were analyzed using Poisson distribution. Changes in PTNB births, proportion of admissions, and deaths/NICU discharges were analyzed by z-test for two proportions. Results: Between 2019 and 2021, the number of births increased by more than 2-fold. NICU admissions increased from 770 in 2019 to 1045 in 2021 (p < 0.01). The ratio of deaths/discharge from the service was 16.9% in 2019 and 13.1% in 2021 (p = 0.02). Conclusions: Mortality indicators in the NICU decreased from 2019 to 2021, even with the increase in the number of patients admitted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Resumen Introducción: Con la identificación de la enfermedad por COVID-19 en China, inició una pandemia que afectó a los sistemas de salud. La Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales (UCIN) del Hospital de Ginecobstetricia del Centro Médico Nacional de Occidente del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS) vio incrementado su flujo de pacientes como parte de la Estrategia COVID-19 del IMSS. El objetivo fue analizar el impacto de la pandemia COVID-19 en los indicadores de atención y mortalidad neonatal en nuestra unidad. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo para comparar el número de nacimientos en el hospital, nacimientos de recién nacidos prematuros (RNPT), ingresos a UCIN y defunciones. Se analizaron los cambios en frecuencias entre los años 2019 a 2021 mediante la distribución de Poisson. Los cambios en nacimientos de RNPT, proporción de ingresos y defunciones/egreso en UCIN se analizaron mediante prueba Z para dos proporciones. Resultados: Entre los años 2019 a 2021, el número de nacimientos incrementó más de 2 veces. Los ingresos a UCIN aumentaron de 770 en 2019, a 1045 en 2021 (p < 0.01). La proporción de defunciones/egreso del servicio fue de 16.9% en 2019, y 13.1% en 2021 (p = 0.02). Conclusiones: Los indicadores de mortalidad en la UCIN disminuyeron de 2019 a 2021, aun con el incremento en el número de pacientes atendidos durante la pandemia COVID-19.

Infants of diabetic mothers and associated complications in neonatal intensive care unit in Misurata Center

Infants of diabetic mothers (IDM) are at an increased risk of various complications. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence, demographic and clinical characters of IDM admissions to the neonatal intensive care unit, and the factors associated with morbidity and mortality. The study is a 1-year retrospective observational study involving all the cases of IDM admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit at Misurata. The study examined the association of the following ante- peri- and postnatal factors to the morbidity and mortality rate of IDM. A total of 103 IDM were admitted to the NICU with mother age range of 31- 35 years. About 84% of the mothers had multiple pregnancies, 81.5% of the IDM were born through C-section. 72% of the mothers had gestational diabetes. 59% of IDMs were females. Median gestational age was 36 ­ 38 weeks which was associated with higher mortality rate (p = 0.041) ,40% of them were post term. Macrosomia was the most common complication; 41%. About 22% had hypocalcemia and 12% had RDS. Six cases had congenital heart disease (CHD). About 26% of the cases required intravenous fluid (IVF) which had a significantly higher mortality rate (25% vs. 1.3%) (p = 0.008). IDM are at a higher risk of congenital and acquired morbidities and mortality. Delayed birth and the mode of delivery (elective or urgent Csection) are associated with the severity of the gestational diabetes which is significantly associated with higher mortality rate.

Diaphragmatic and excursion thickness in newborns using diaphragmatic kinesiology ultrasound: an observational study / Espessura e excursão diafragmática em recém-nascidos usando ultrassonografia cinesiológica do diafragma: um estudo observacional

Abstract Introduction The study of the diaphragm muscle has aroused the interest of physiotherapists who work with kinesiological ultrasonography, but still little explored; however, its findings can contribute to the clinical practice of hospitalized patients in neonatal intensive care units. Objective To measure the excursion and thickening of the diaphragm and describe measurements among neonates, preterm, and full-term. Methods Diaphragmatic kinesiological ultrasonography was performed on hospitalized newborns, in Neonatal Unit Care Unit, placed in supine position in their own bed, on the sixth day of life. Three repeated measurements of the same respiratory cycle were made, both for excursion and for diaphragmatic thickening. Results 37 newborns participated in the study and 25 were premature. The mean weight at the time of collection was 2,307.0 ± 672.76 grams and the gestational age was 35.7 ± 3.3 weeks. Diaphragmatic excursion increased with increasing gestational age (p = 0.01, df = 0.21) in term infants (p = 0.17, df = 0.35). Conclusion There was a positive correlation between diaphragmatic excursion and gestational age. There was no statistically significant difference in the measurements of excursion and inspiratory diaphragm thickening between preterm and term newborns, although pointing to higher measurements in the latter group.

Resumo Introdução O estudo do músculo diafragma tem des-pertado o interesse dos fisioterapeutas que trabalham com ultrassonografia cinesiológica. Ainda pouco explo-rado, contudo, seus achados podem contribuir para a prática clínica dos pacientes internados em unidades de terapia intensiva neonatal (UTIN). Objetivo Mensurar a excursão e o espessamento diafragmático e descrever as medidas entre recém-nascidos prematuros e a termo. Métodos Realizou-se ultrassonografia cinesiológica diafragmática em recém-nascidos internados em UTIN, posicionados em supino em seu próprio leito, no sexto dia de vida. Foram realizadas três medidas repetidas do mesmo ciclo respiratório, tanto da excursão quanto do espessamento diafragmático. Resultados Participaram do estudo 37 recém-nascidos, dos quais 25 eram pre-maturos. O peso no momento da coleta foi de 2.307,0 ± 672,76 gramas e a idade gestacional foi de 35,7 ± 3,3 semanas. A excursão diafragmática aumentou de acordo com o aumento da idade gestacional (p = 0,01; df = 0,21). A espessura variou entre 0,10 e 0,16 cm durante a inspiração nos prematuros e entre 0,11 e 0,19 cm nos nascidos a termo (p = 0,17; df = 0,35). Conclusão Houve correlação positiva entre a excursão diafragmá-tica e a idade gestacional. Não observou-se diferença estatisticamente significativa das medidas de excursão e de espessamento diafragmático inspiratório entre recém-nascidos prematuros e recém-nascidos a termo, embora apontando para maiores medidas neste último grupo.

Percepção de profissionais de enfermagem sobre o cuidado prestado ao neonato com estomia de eliminação intestinal / Percepción de profesionales de enfermería sobre el cuidado prestado al neonato con ostomía de eliminación intestinal / Nursing professionals' perceptions of the care provided to the neonate with intestinal elimination ostomy

Resumo Objetivos Conhecer a percepção da equipe de enfermagem da unidade neonatal sobre os cuidados prestados ao recém-nascido hospitalizado com estomia intestinal e discutir os fatores que interferem na assistência de enfermagem. Método Estudo exploratório, descritivo, com abordagem qualitativa. Participaram oito enfermeiros e oito técnicos de enfermagem que trabalham em uma Unidade Neonatal do Rio de Janeiro. Os dados foram coletados entre abril e junho de 2022, através de entrevista semiestruturada e análise de conteúdo. Resultados Emergiram duas categorias: "percepções da equipe de enfermagem quanto ao cuidar de recém-nascidos hospitalizados com estomias intestinais e a educação em saúde da família"; e "aspectos facilitadores e dificultadores da assistência de enfermagem ao recém-nascido com estomia intestinal e a importância da educação permanente no cenário da Unidade Neonatal". Conclusão e implicações para prática O manejo de neonatos com estomias intestinais é atual e implica em cuidados de enfermagem com o estoma e pele do recém-nascido, estendendo-se para a prática da educação em saúde dos familiares. É desafiador o manejo de complicações, a indisponibilidade de materiais e o cuidado fragmentado. Tal achado pode subsidiar o desenvolvimento de intervenções de enfermagem sistematizada para os recém-nascidos e seus pais na unidade neonatal.

Resumen Objetivos Conocer la percepción del equipo de enfermería de la unidad neonatal sobre el cuidado prestado al neonato hospitalizado con ostomías intestinales y discutir los factores que interfieren en el cuidado de enfermería. Método Estudio exploratorio, descriptivo, con abordaje cualitativo. Participaron ocho enfermeros y ocho técnicos de enfermería que actúan en una Unidad Neonatal de Rio de Janeiro. Datos colectados entre abril y junio de 2022, por entrevistas semiestructuradas y análisis de contenido. Resultados Emergieron dos categorías: "percepciones del equipo de enfermería sobre el cuidado al recién nacido hospitalizado con ostomías intestinales y la educación en salud de la familia"; y "aspectos que facilitan y dificultan el cuidado de enfermería al recién nacido con ostomía intestinal y la importancia de la educación continua en el ámbito de la Unidad Neonatal". Conclusión e implicaciones para la práctica El manejo de neonatos con ostomías intestinales es actual e implica cuidados de enfermería con el estoma y la piel del recién nacido, extendiéndose a la práctica de educación en salud para familiares. El manejo de complicaciones, la falta de materiales y la atención fragmentada son desafíos. Este hallazgo puede apoyar el desarrollo de intervenciones de enfermería sistematizadas para los recién nacidos y sus padres en la unidad neonatal.

Abstract Objectives To understand the perception of the nursing team of the neonatal unit about the care provided to hospitalized newborns with intestinal ostomy and to discuss the factors that interfere in nursing care. Method Exploratory and descriptive study, with a qualitative approach. Eight nurses and eight nursing technicians who work in a Neonatal Unit in Rio de Janeiro took part. Data were collected between April and June 2022, through semi-structured interviews and content analysis. Results Two categories emerged: "perceptions of the nursing team regarding the care of hospitalized newborns with intestinal ostomies and family health education"; and "facilitating and hindering aspects of nursing care for newborns with intestinal ostomy and the importance of continuing education in the setting of the Neonatal Unit". Conclusion and implications for practice The management of newborns with intestinal ostomies is current and involves nursing care with the stoma and skin of the newborn, extending to the practice of health education for family members. The management of complications, the unavailability of materials and fragmented care are challenging. This finding can support the development of systematized nursing interventions for newborns and their parents in the neonatal unit.

Validation of an online course on postural care for preterm newborns / Validación del curso online sobre cuidados posturales del recién nacido prematuro / Validação de curso on-line sobre cuidados posturais ao recém-nascido prematuro

ABSTRACT Objectives: Validation of an online course content on postural care for newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and assessment of participant satisfaction. Method: Methodological study of content validation by 13 judges with expertise in neonatology and online education who responded to the educational content validation instrument, and by 175 course participants who evaluated the course through a satisfaction questionnaire. The criterion for validation was agreement above 80.0%, analyzed through the Content Validity Index (CVI), Content Validation Coefficient (CVC), binomial test, and descriptive statistics for analyzing satisfaction variables. Data collection took place from January to June 2022 for the validation stage, and during June 2023 for the evaluation stage conducted by the course participants. Results: All items obtained agreement above 80.0% with a total CVI and CVC of 83.3% and 91.0%, respectively. The course participants positively evaluated the course regarding content organization, coherence between theory and practice, navigability, quality of materials, and applicability in professional practice. Conclusion: The online course was considered valid regarding its objectives, structure/presentation, and relevance. Therefore, it can be offered as an open educational resource in the training of healthcare and nursing professionals to provide postural care to newborns in critical environments, thereby enhancing the performance of developmental care.

RESUMEN Objetivos: Validar el contenido de un curso online sobre cuidados posturales del recién nacido en la Unidad de Cuidados Intensivos Neonatales y verificar la satisfacción de los participantes del curso. Método: Estudio metodológico de validación de contenido realizado por 13 jueces con experiencia en neonatología y educación en línea que respondieron al instrumento de validación de contenido educativo: y por 175 participantes del curso que evaluaron el curso mediante un cuestionario de satisfacción. El criterio de validación fue una concordancia mayor al 80,0%, analizado mediante el Content Validity Index (CVI), Coeficiente de Validación de Contenido (CVC), prueba binomial y estadística descriptiva para analizar las variables de satisfacción. La recolección de datos se realizó de enero a junio de 2022 para la etapa de validación; y en junio de 2023 para la etapa de evaluación realizada por los participantes del curso. Resultados: Todos los ítems lograron una concordancia superior al 80,0% con un CVI y un CVC total de 83,3% y 91,0%, respectivamente. Los participantes del curso coincidieron en una evaluación positiva en términos de organización de contenidos, coherencia entre teoría y práctica, navegabilidad, calidad de los materiales y posibilidad de aplicación en la práctica profesional. Conclusión: El curso en línea se consideró válido en términos de objetivos, estructura/presentación y relevancia. Por lo tanto, puede ofrecerse como un recurso educativo abierto para el perfeccionamiento de los profesionales de la salud y de enfermería con el fin de brindar cuidados posturales a los recién nacidos en ambientes críticos, y elevar la prestación de los cuidados del desarrollo.

RESUMO Objetivos: Validar o conteúdo de um curso on-line sobre cuidados posturais ao recém-nascido na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal e verificar a satisfação dos cursistas. Método: Estudo metodológico de validação de conteúdo por 13 juízes com expertise em neonatologia e educação on-line que responderam ao instrumento de validação de conteúdo educacional: e por 175 cursistas que avaliaram o curso mediante um questionário de satisfação. O critério para validação foi concordância superior a 80,0%, analisado por meio do Content Validity Index (CVI), Coeficiente de Validação de Conteúdo (CVC), teste binomial e estatística descritiva para análise das variáveis de satisfação. A coleta de dados ocorreu de janeiro a junho de 2022 para a etapa da validação; e no período de junho de 2023 para a etapa de avaliação realizada pelos cursistas. Resultados: Todos os itens obtiveram concordância superior a 80,0% com CVI e CVC total de 83,3% e 91,0%, respectivamente. Os cursistas avaliaram positivamente o curso quanto à organização do conteúdo, coerência entre teoria e prática, navegabilidade, qualidade dos materiais e possibilidade de aplicação na prática profissional. Conclusão: O curso on-line foi considerado válido no tocante aos objetivos, estrutura/apresentação e relevância. Portanto, pode ser ofertado como recurso educacional aberto no aperfeiçoamento de profissionais de saúde e enfermagem a fim de prestar o cuidado postural aos recém-nascidos em ambiente crítico, elevando o desempenho dos cuidados desenvolvimentais.

Early-onset neonatal sepsis as a risk factor for peri-intraventricular hemorrhage in premature infants / Sepse precoce como fator de risco para hemorragia peri-intraventricular em prematuros

ABSTRACT Objective: To assess early-onset sepsis as a risk factor of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage in premature infants born at less than or equal to 34 weeks' gestation and admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Methods: This retrospective cohort study included premature patients born at less than or equal to 34 weeks' gestation who were admitted to the NICU of a tertiary hospital in southern Brazil, and born from January 2017 to July 2021. Data were collected from patients' medical records. Early-onset sepsis was measured according to the presence or absence of diagnosis within the first 72 hours of life, whereas the outcome, peri-intraventricular hemorrhage, was described as the presence or absence of hemorrhage, regardless of its grade. Results: Hazard ratios were calculated using Cox regression models. A total of 487 patients were included in the study, of which 169 (34.7%) had some degree of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage. Early-onset sepsis was present in 41.6% of the cases of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage, which revealed a significant association between these variables, with increased risk of the outcome in the presence of sepsis. In the final multivariate model, the hazard ratio for early-onset sepsis was 1.52 (95% confidence interval 1.01-2.27). Conclusion: Early-onset sepsis and the use of surfactants showed to increase the occurrence of the outcome in premature children born at less than or equal to 34 weeks' gestation. Meanwhile, factors such as antenatal corticosteroids and gestational age closer to 34 weeks' gestations were found to reduce the risk of peri-intraventricular hemorrhage.

RESUMO Objetivo: O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar a sepse precoce como fator de risco para hemorragia peri-intraventricular (HPIV) em prematuros com 34 semanas ou menos, admitidos em Unidade de Terapia Intensiva (UTI) Neonatal. Métodos: Este estudo de coorte retrospectivo incluiu pacientes prematuros com 34 semanas ou menos, que receberam alta da UTI Neonatal de hospital terciário, no sul do Brasil, nascidos no período de janeiro de 2017 a julho de 2021. Os dados foram coletados por meio dos prontuários desses pacientes. A sepse precoce foi mensurada conforme a presença ou a ausência do diagnóstico nas primeiras 72 horas de vida. Já o desfecho, hemorragia peri-intraventricular, foi descrito conforme a presença ou ausência da hemorragia, independentemente do grau. Resultados: Hazard ratios (HR) foram calculados por meio de modelos de regressão de Cox. Foram incluídos no estudo 487 pacientes. Destes, 169 (34,7%) apresentaram algum grau de hemorragia peri-intraventricular. A sepse precoce esteve presente em 41,6% dos casos de hemorragia peri-intraventricular e apresentou associação significativa, elevando o risco do desfecho quando presente. No modelo multivariável final, o HR para a sepse precoce foi de 1,52 (intervalo de confiança de 95% — IC95% 1,01-2,27). Conclusão: Sepse precoce e uso de surfactante demonstraram aumentar a ocorrência do desfecho em crianças prematuras até 34 semanas, enquanto fatores como corticoide antenatal e idades gestacionais mais próximas a 34 semanas mostraram reduzir o risco de ocorrência hemorragia peri-intraventricular.

Prescription of off-label and unlicensed medication for newborns hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit / Prescrição de medicamentos off-label e não licenciados para neonatos hospitalizados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the prevalence of off-label and unlicensed prescriptions for a population of neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in a hospital in southern Santa Catarina. Methods: Observational study with a cross-sectional design. All neonates admitted to the Intensive Care Unit during the period from March 2020 to March 2021 were included. Data collection was performed through a questionnaire made by the authors and the classification of drugs based on the Electronic Drug Description (Bulário Eletrônico) of the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency and Drug Dex-Micromedex. Results: Data from 296 neonates were evaluated. The prevalence was 50,7% for prescribing off-label medications and 37,2% for unlicensed medications. The use of drugs was higher in preterm neonates, with low birth weight, 1st minute Apgar between 6-8, 5th minute Apgar between 7-8, and in need of invasive procedures. The most used off-label drugs were ampicillin, gentamicin and fentanyl (92.6, 92.0 and 26.6%, respectively), whereas the most used unlicensed drugs were caffeine, phenobarbital and bromopride (78.1, 16.3 and 10.9%, respectively). Conclusions: This study showed a large percentage of prescriptions made in the off-label (50.7%) and unlicensed (37.2%) form in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, corroborating the worrying world scenario. The most exposed neonates were precisely the most vulnerable ones and, among the most commonly prescribed medications, ampicillin and gentamicin stood out in off-label form and caffeine in unlicensed form.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a prevalência de prescrições off-label e não licenciadas uma população de neonatos internados na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal em um hospital ao sul de Santa Catarina. Métodos: Estudo observacional com delineamento transversal. Foram incluídos todos os neonatos admitidos na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva durante o período de março de 2020 a março de 2021. A coleta de dados foi realizada a partir de questionário elaborado pelos autores, e a classificação dos medicamentos, com base no Bulário Eletrônico da Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária e no Drug Dex-Micromedex. Resultados: Foram avaliados dados de 296 neonatos. A prevalência foi de 50,7% para prescrição de medicações off-label e 37,2% para medicações não licenciadas. O uso dos fármacos foi maior em neonatos pré-termo, com baixo peso ao nascer, Apgar de 1o minuto entre 6-8, Apgar de 5o minuto entre 7-8, e com necessidade de procedimentos invasivos. Os fármacos off-label mais utilizados foram a ampicilina, gentamicina e fentanil (92,6, 92 e 26,6%, respectivamente), já os fármacos não licenciados mais utilizados foram a cafeína, fenobarbital e bromoprida (78,1, 16,3 e 10,9%, respectivamente). Conclusões: O estudo demonstrou grande porcentagem de prescrições realizadas de forma off-label (50,7%) e não licenciada (37,2%) na Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal de análise, corroborando o preocupante cenário mundial. Os neonatos mais expostos foram justamente aqueles mais vulneráveis e, entre as medicações mais utilizadas, destacam-se a ampicilina e a gentamicina de modo off-label e a cafeína de modo não licenciado.

Uso de ceftazidima-avibactam en una recién nacida prematura con infección urinaria bacteriémica por Klebsiella pneumoniae productora de carbapenemasa / Use of ceftazidime-avibactam in a preterm infant with urinary tract infection with bacteremia caused by carbapenemase-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae

Los recién nacidos tienen un alto riesgo de morbimortalidad asociada a infecciones durante su estancia en unidades de cuidado intensivo neonatal, a lo que se asocia un aumento progresivo de infecciones por microorganismos multi-resistentes que requiere el uso de nuevos antimicrobianos. Presentamos el caso de una recién nacida de pretérmino de 36 semanas que cursó con una infección del tracto urinario bacteriémica por Klebsiella pneumoniae productora de carbapenemasa tratada de forma efectiva con 14 días de cefazi- dima-avibactam, sin efectos adversos observados. Según nuestro conocimiento, este es el primer caso reportado en nuestro país del uso de este antimicrobiano en población neonatal. Se necesita más información sobre la eficacia y seguridad de ceftazidima-avibactam en este grupo de pacientes.

Neonates are high risk patients regarding morbimortality secondary to infections during their neonatal intensive care unit stay, which is associated to a progressive increase in the report of multidrug resistant organism infections, that require the use of new antimicrobial. We report the case of a 36-week preterm with an urinary tract infection with bacteriemia caused by carbapenemase- producing Klebsiella pneumoniae treated effectively with 14 day of ceftazidime-avibactam, without observed adverse effects. To our knowledge, this is the first case report in our country of the use of this antibiotic in neonatal population. More information is needed regarding efficacy and safety of ceftazidime-avibactam in this group of patients.

Bioética y toma de decisiones al final de la vida en UCI neonatal

El equipo multidisciplinario especializado, con ayudas diagnósticas avanzadas, brinda, en las unidades de cuidados intensivos neonatales, atención a los recién nacidos en estado crítico de salud. No comprender la muerte como un acontecimiento natural dificulta establecer un equilibrio en el tratamiento proporcionado y exige una juiciosa valoración de los beneficios y cargas basados en una ética responsable. La literatura sugiere que se necesita, en relación con los aspectos bioéticos de la práctica clínica, de capacitación, participación y presencia permanente de los profesionales de la salud en la toma de decisiones en conjunto con las madres, de tal forma que se proporcione consuelo a la familia del neonato.

The specialized multidisciplinary team, with advanced diagnostic aids, provides care for critically ill newborns in the neonatal intensive care units. Not understanding death as a natural event makes it difficult to establish a balance in the treatment provided and requires a judicious assessment of benefits and burdens based on responsible ethics. The literature suggests that there is a need, in relation to the bioethical aspects of clinical practice, for training, participation and permanent presence of health professionals in decision making together with the mothers, in order to provide comfort to the newborn's family.

A equipe multidisciplinar especializada, com recursos avançados de diagnóstico, oferece atendimento a recém-nascidos gravemente enfermos nas unidades de terapia intensiva neonatal. Não entender a morte como um evento natural dificulta o estabelecimento de um equilíbrio no tratamento fornecido e exige uma avaliação criteriosa dos benefícios e ônus com base em uma ética responsável. A literatura sugere que haja uma necessidade, com relação aos aspectos bioéticos da prática clínica, de treinamento, participação e presença permanente dos profissionais de saúde na tomada de decisões junto com as mães, a fim de proporcionar conforto à família do recém-nascido.

Validação de conteúdo de uma tecnologia sobre cateter de inserção periférica em unidades neonatais / Content validation of a technology on peripherally inserted central catheter in neonatal units / Validación de contenido de una tecnología sobre catéter de inserción periférica en unidades neonatales

Objetivo: Buscou-se validar uma tecnologia do tipo e-book sobre cateter de inserção periférica para unidades neonatais. Método: Trata-se de uma pesquisa do tipo metodológico, que inferiu como critérios de inclusão enfermeiros neonatologista total de 15 juízes com comprovada experiência prática e científica na área do estudo, com pelo menos 2 anos de atuação profissional e no mínimo de 2 anos em habilitação comprovada por certificado de inserção de catete de inserção periférica, sendo identificados pelo currículo lattes. Os critérios de informações do instrumento foram avaliados por enfermeiros, obtendo um Índice de Validade de Conteúdo mínimo de 90,5% dos conteúdos na primeira rodada de validação. Resultado: Demonstraram que a estratégia metodológica permitiu a construção de conteúdos que representam a necessidade do enfermeiro e demais profissionais na manipulação do cateter. Conclusão: A utilização de tecnologias educacionais facilita o processo de aquisição de conhecimento técnico científica para melhoria assistencial na segurança ao recém-nascido.(AU)

Objective: To validate an e-book technology on peripherally inserted central catheter in neonatal units. Methods: This is a methodological research, thus, a total of 15 expert judges participated in the study. The inclusion criteria were defined as being a nurse, having a specialization in neonatology, 2 years of professional experience in a neonatal intensive care unit and at least 2 years of training in a peripherally inserted central catheter. Results: The instrument's criteria were evaluated by nurses, obtaining approval of 90.5% and Cronbach's alpha 0.915, high reliability among all contents in the first round of validation. The results showed that the methodological strategy allowed the construction of contents that represent the needs of nurses and other professionals in handling the catheter. Conclusion: The use of educational technologies facilitates the process of acquiring scientific technical knowledge to improve care in the safety of newborns.(AU)

Objetivo: validar una tecnología de libro electrónico sobre catéter central de inserción periférica en unidades neonatales. Esta es una investigación metodológica. Un total de 15 jueces expertos participaron en el estudio. Como criterios de inclusión: ser enfermero, tener especialidad en neonatología, 2 años de experiencia profesional en unidad de cuidados intensivos neonatales y al menos 2 años de calificación en catéter central de inserción periférica. Los criterios del instrumento fueron evaluados por enfermeros, obteniendo aprobación del 90,5% y alfa de Cronbach de 0,915, alta confiabilidad entre todos los contenidos en la primera ronda de validación. Los resultados mostraron que la estrategia metodológica permitió la construcción de contenidos que representan las necesidades de los enfermeros y otros profesionales en el manejo del catéter. El uso de tecnologías educativas facilita el proceso de adquisición de conocimientos técnicos y científicos para mejorar la atención en términos de seguridad para los recién nacidos.(AU)

Prevalence of thyroid dysfunction in neonates receiving parenteral nutrition in the intensive care unit

Abstract Objective: The use of parenteral nutrition (PN) formulations that do not contain iodine can contribute to the deficiency of this mineral, potentially leading to hypothyroidism and, ultimately, neurocognitive impairments. This study aimed to evaluate TSH alterations in newborns receiving PN. Methods: Retrospective study of neonatal intensive care unit patients receiving PN for > 15 days. Nutritional, anthropometric, and biochemical variables (TSH, T4, CRP) were analyzed. Hypothyroidism was defined by TSH > 10 mU/L. Results: Two hundred newborns were evaluated [156 (78%) preterm, 31±5 weeks of gestational age, 112 (56%) with very or extremely low birth weight]. The median (IQR) hospital stay was 68 (42-110) days, PN duration was 31 (21-47) days, and 188 (94%) patients also received enteral nutrition. Overall, 143 (71.5%) newborns underwent at least one TSH measurement. The prevalence of hypothyroidism was 10.5%. The Median PN duration in this group was 51 (34-109) days. Among those with hypothyroidism, 10 received Lugol's solution and six levothyroxine. Thirteen patients received prophylactic Lugol's solution with a median PN duration of 63 (48-197) days. TSH levels correlated positively with PN duration (r = 0.19, p = .02). Conclusions: The present data suggest that changes in TSH and T4 levels are present in neonates receiving PN for > 15 days, suggesting this population may be at risk for developing hypothyroid-ism. Therefore, the authors suggest that TSH and T4 measurements should be included as routine in neonatal patients receiving PN for > 15 days if PN formulations are not supplemented with iodine, and that iodine supplementation be provided as necessary.

Safety of family integrated care model in neonatal intensive care unit: a Meta-analysis / 中国新生儿科杂志

Objective:To systematically evaluate the safety of family integrated care (FICare) model in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).Methods:Multiple medical databases were searched for clinical studies on FICare in NICU published from January 1, 2010 to May 28, 2022. The quality of the literature was evaluated using Risk?of?Bias?2 tool?and cohort evaluation criteria from the Cochrane Systematic Evaluation Manual depending on the types of studies included. Meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.3 software.Results:Six randomized controlled trials and four cohort studies were included for meta-analysis. The results of meta-analysis showed that compared with the traditional care model, FICare model did not increase the risk of nosocomial infection ( RR=0.75, 95% CI 0.46-1.24, P=0.27) and unstable medical conditions ( RR=0.86, 95% CI 0.61-1.22, P=0.40). No significant difference existed in the all-cause mortality between FICare and traditional care ( RR=2.74, 95% CI 0.88-8.57, P=0.08). Conclusions:FICare does not increase the risk of nosocomial infection, unstable medical conditions and adverse events compared with traditional care. It is safe and feasible to implement FICare in NICU.

Outcomes and post-discharge follow-up of neonatal tracheotomy in NICU / 中国小儿急救医学

Objective:To study the outcomes and post-discharge follow-up of neonatal tracheotomy in neonatal intensive care unit(NICU).Methods:This study included patients who were admitted to NICU in Beijing Children′s Hospital from January, 2016 to August, 2021, and less than 28 days or 44 weeks(corrected age)on admission, and required tracheotomy.The patients were divided into tracheotomy group and the non-tracheotomy group (the parents signed to refuse the tracheotomy) according to whether perform tracheotomy.Demographic data, general hospitalization information, diagnosis, indications for tracheotomy, follow-up outcomes at 3/6/12 months of age after discharge of patients were collected and analyzed.Results:Totally 26 patients were included in this study, 14 cases in tracheotomy group and 12 cases in non-tracheotomy group.The average gestational age was(37.7±3.80)weeks and(38.99±1.83)weeks, and birth weight was(2 823.57±948.89)g and (3 320.83±378.76)g, respectively.There were no significant differences in sex, gestational age, birth weight, age on admission, weight on admission, age at diagnosis, ratio of endotracheal intubation for respiratory support on admission between two groups( P>0.05). The commonest indications of tracheotomy group were bilateral vocal cord paralysis(50.0%) and congenital anomaly/defect of throat/larynx(21.4%), and the commonest indications of non-tracheotomy group were bilateral vocal cord paralysis(50.0%) and vocal cord/subglottic mass(25.0%), and there was no significant difference between two groups( P>0.05). The rate of discharge-against-medical order of tracheotomy and non-tracheotomy group was 7.14% and 66.67%( P=0.003), respectively.The total follow-up rate of tracheotomy and non-tracheotomy group was 88.9% and 38.9%, while the follow-up rates at 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months were 100.0% vs. 50.0%, 83.3% vs. 41.7%, and 81.8% vs. 25.0%, respectively, whose differences were statistically significant(all P<0.05). In the 14 cases of tracheotomy group, 3 cases died, 4 cases successfully removed the tracheal cannula, 5 cases did not remove the tracheal cannula, and 2 cases were lost. Conclusion:Bilateral vocal cord paralysis is the commonest indication of neonatal tracheotomy.Parents′ compliance in the tracheotomy group is significantly higher than that in non-tracheotomy group.To give caring skill training for parents of neonates with tracheotomy before discharge is beneficial for improving the overall prognosis of children.

Impact of the environmental layout of the neonatal intensive care unit on clinical outcomes and neurological development in very/extremely preterm infants / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To investigate the impact of the environmental layout of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) on clinical outcomes and neurological development in very/extremely preterm infants.@*METHODS@#A total of 304 very/extremely preterm infants admitted to Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between January 2021 and June 2022 within 24 hours after birth were included in this retrospective cohort study. Based on different environmental layouts in the NICU, the infants were divided into two groups: centralized layout group (n=157) and decentralized layout group (n=147). The clinical outcomes and Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP) scores at corrected gestational age between 34 to 51+6 weeks were compared between the two groups.@*RESULTS@#The decentralized layout group had lower incidence rates of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (44.9% vs 62.4%, P<0.05) and intracranial hemorrhage (17.7% vs 28.0%, P<0.05) than the centralized layout group. The cure rate was higher in the decentralized layout group compared to the centralized layout group (68.7% vs 56.7%, P<0.05). The decentralized layout group had higher TIMP scores than the centralized layout group at corrected gestational age between 34 to 51+6 weeks (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#The decentralized layout of the NICU exhibits positive effects on the clinical outcomes and early neurological development compared to the centralized layout in very/extremely preterm infants.

Post-natal prognostic factors in CDH: experience of 11 years in a referral center in Brazil

Abstract Objective To describe post-natal risk factors associated with death in Newborns (NB) with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) in a Brazilian reference center. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, post-natal clinical factors of all NB diagnosed with CDH were reviewed in an 11-year period (2007‒2018). The primary outcome was death. Secondary outcomes included clinical features, prognostic indexes, type of mechanical ventilation, complications during hospitalization and surgical repair. Results After applying the exclusion criteria, the authors analyzed 137 charts. Overall mortality was 59% (81/137), and the highest rates were observed for low-birth-weight NB (87%), syndromic phenotype (92%), and those with major malformations (100%). Prognostic indexes such as Apgar, SNAPPE-II and 24hOI (best oxygenation index in 24 hours) were all associated with poor evolution. In a multivariate analysis, only birth weight and 24hOI were statistically significant risk factors for mortality, with a reduction in mortality risk of 17.1% (OR = 0.829, 95% IC 0.72‒0.955, p = 0.009) for each additional 100g at birth and an increase by 26.5% (OR = 1.265, 95% IC 1.113‒1.436, p = 0.0003) for each unitary increase at the 24hOI. Conclusion Prognostic indexes are an important tool for predicting outcomes and improving resource allocation. Post-natal risk factors may be more suitable for settings where antenatal diagnosis is not universal. Classical risk factors, such as prematurity, low birth weight, higher need for supportive care, and poorer prognostic indexes were associated with mortality in our CDH population.

Effects of Kangaroo Care on the development of oral skills and achievement of exclusive oral feeding in preterm infants / Efeitos do Método Canguru no desenvolvimento das habilidades orais e na aquisição da alimentação oral exclusiva em recém-nascidos pré-termo

ABSTRACT Purpose analyze the effects of hospitalization in the Kangaroo Neonatal Intermediate Care Unit (UCINCa), the second stage of the Kangaroo Care (KC), on the development of oral feeding skills in preterm neonates. Methods an analytical observational study of the prospective longitudinal type, carried out in a public hospital in Southern Brazil, where infants were accompanied until hospital discharge. The sample consisted of 20 preterm neonates hospitalized at the UCINCa and 26 preterm neonates at the Conventional Neonatal Intermediate Care Unit (UCINCo), that were periodically evaluated through the levels of oral skill, in a bottle, according to the criteria of proficiency and milk transfer rate. The outcomes considered were a progression of the oral skill level, days of transition to obtain the full oral route, and days of hospital stay. Results the duration of transition to exclusive oral feeding was shorter for preterm neonates at the UCINCa (4.5 vs. 10 days) relative to those at the UCINCo (p = 0.041). By the third assessment, all preterm neonates at the UCINCa had reached level 4, while participants at the UCINCo only achieved this level of performance on the fifth assessment. The average number of days of hospitalization was four days shorter in UCINCa participants (p=0.098). Conclusion the admission to the UCINCa had been a further acceleration in the maturation of oral skills, which allowed for a faster transition to exclusive oral feeding as compared to neonates admitted in UCINCo.

RESUMO Objetivo verificar os efeitos da internação em Unidade de Cuidado Intermediário Neonatal Canguru (UCINCa), segunda etapa do Método Canguru, no desenvolvimento das habilidades de alimentação oral em recém nascidos pré-termo (RNPT). Método estudo observacional analítico do tipo longitudinal prospectivo, realizado em um hospital público no Sul do Brasil, com acompanhamento até a alta hospitalar. A amostra foi constituída por 20 RNPT internados na UCINCa e 26 RNPT na Unidade de Cuidado Intermediário Neonatal Convencional (UCINCo), que foram avaliados periodicamente por meio dos níveis de habilidade oral, em mamadeira, conforme os critérios de proficiência e taxa de transferência de leite. Os desfechos considerados foram progressão do nível de habilidade oral, dias de transição para obtenção da via oral plena, dias de internação hospitalar. Resultados o tempo de transição para obtenção da via oral exclusiva foi menor nos RNPT da UCINCa (4,5 dias versus 10 dias) quando comparados aos da UCINCo (p=0,041). Na terceira avaliação de habilidade oral, a totalidade de RNPT da UCINCa atingiu o nível 4, já os participantes da UCINCo somente alcançaram esse nível na quinta avaliação. A mediana dos dias de internação foi de quatro dias menor nos participantes da UCINCa (p=0,098). Conclusão a internação na UCINCa favoreceu uma aceleração no processo de maturação das habilidades orais, influenciando positivamente na transição alimentar oral do RNPT, na comparação com os RNPT internados na UCINCo.

Influence of the selective insufflation technique on cerebral blood flow in preterm infants / Influência da técnica de insuflação seletiva no fluxo sanguíneo cerebral de prematuros

Abstract Introduction The intervention of respiratory physio-therapy in neonatal units is in continuous development, having its own care characteristics related to the weight and gestational age of the newborn, respecting the immaturity of the organs and systems and the diseases of this patient. Through techniques, the objective is to optimize the respiratory function, assisting in the clearance of secretions, and the restoration of lung volumes. Objective To verify if the respiratory physiotherapy technique of selective insufflation alters the cerebral blood flow in premature infants under 34 weeks of gestational age. Methods This is an uncontrolled clinical trial, conducted in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of a level III hospital, between January 2019 and March 2020, with participation of premature newborns under 34 weeks of gestational age. All were submitted to transfontanellar Doppler ultrasonography to assess cerebral blood flow measurements, mainly the resistance index, before and after the application of the selective insufflation respiratory physiotherapy technique. Results Sixty-two newborns were included, with a mean gestational age of 29.3 ± 2.2 weeks and birth weight of 1,259 ± 388 grams. The resistance index did not change significantly (RI before: 0.55 ± 0.07; after: 0.54 ± 0.07; p = 0.06) before and after the intervention and no studied variables such as, gender, gestational age, weight, Apgar score or SNAPPE II score had an influence on cerebral blood flow measurements. Conclusion The selective insufflation technique did not alter cerebral blood flow in premature newborn infants under 34 weeks gestational age.

Resumo Introdução A intervenção da fisioterapia respiratória nas unidades neonatais está em contínuo desenvolvimento, tendo características próprias de atendimento relacio-nadas ao peso e à idade gestacional do recém-nascido, respeitando a imaturidade dos órgãos e sistemas e as doenças desse paciente. Objetivo Verificar se a técnica de fisioterapia respiratória de insuflação seletiva altera o fluxo sanguíneo cerebral de prematuros menores de 34 semanas de idade gestacional. Métodos Trata-se de um ensaio clínico não controlado, realizado em uma Unidade de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal de um hospital nível III, entre janeiro de 2019 e março de 2020, com a participação de recém-nascidos prematuros menores de 34 semanas de idade gestacional. Todos foram submetidos ao exame de ultrassonografia transfontanela com Doppler para avaliar as medidas de fluxo sanguíneo cerebral, principalmente o índice de resistência, antes e depois da aplicação da técnica de fisioterapia respiratória de insuflação seletiva. Resultados Sessenta e dois recém-nascidos foram incluídos, com média de idade gestacional de 29,3 ± 2,2 semanas e peso de nascimento de 1259 ± 388 gramas. O índice de resistência não se modificou de forma significativa antes e depois da intervenção (IR antes: 0,55 ± 0,07; depois: 0,54 ± 0,07; p = 0,06) e nenhuma variável estudada, como sexo, idade gestacional, peso, escore de Apgar ou escore SNAPPE II, teve influência nas medidas de fluxo sanguíneo cerebral. Conclusão A técnica de insuflação seletiva não alterou o fluxo sanguíneo cerebral de recém-nascidos prematuros menores de 34 semanas de idade gestacional.