Management of the neonate with patent ductus arteriosus

Care of the preterm infant with a suspected or confirmed diagnosis of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a frequent challenge for the neonatal nurse. Management of term infants with cardiac lesions dependent upon a PDA can be even more challenging. It is vital for neonatal nurses to understand the normal cardiovascular and pulmonary changes that occur at birth so they can anticipate pathological processes influencing the clinical course of an infant with a PDA. In addition, knowledge of current and effective treatment approaches is essential to providing optimal care for these vulnerable infants, as well as in guiding their parents. The purpose of this article is to review current information about PDA, including physiology, pathophysiology, pharmacological approaches, surgical considerations, complications and outcomes, parental support, and areas for future research.