Decreasing Newborn Readmissions for Hyperbilirubinemia

Poster PresentationPurpose for the ProgramHyperbilirubinemia is the most common indication for hospital readmission of term and late preterm infants. In reviewing our performance, we identified a 12‐month rolling readmission rate of 2.43%, which was greater than the 1.50% benchmark of other large teaching hospitals. Analysis of our data revealed that 25% of newborn readmissions were for hyperbilirubinemia. In an effort to reduce readmission rates, we identified opportunities to update and standardize assessment and management of hyperbilirubinemia.Proposed ChangeOur previous practice was to perform a transcutaneous bilirubin test at age 30 hours and to notify the infant care provider only if the infant fell into the high‐risk zone (95th percentile per the Bhutani nomogram). Subsequent testing and treatment was determined by the individual care provider, and there were no standard nursing interventions. A multidisciplinary task force was established to develop and implement an algorithm based on current evidence that focused on assessment, early identification of at‐risk infants, early implementation of interventions, and consistent outpatient management. Simultaneously with this work our facility was implementing the 10 Steps to Successful Breastfeeding in preparation for achieving Baby Friendly Hospital designation. The task force hoped to take advantage of the work in progress to support breastfeeding because a major risk factor for hyperbilirubinemia is inadequate br...
Source: Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Newborn Care Source Type: research