Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026
05:58
Application of an Amplitude-integrated EEG Monitor (Cerebral Function Monitor) to Neonates
Published on: September 6, 2017
Improving surveillance for hyperammonemia in the newborn
Samantha A Vergano1, Jonathan M Crossette, Frederick C Cusick
1Section of Biochemical Genetics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
Molecular Genetics and Metabolism
|June 11, 2013
Summary
A new electronic medical record (EMR) alert system helps doctors quickly detect hyperammonemia in infants. This tool improves the early identification of this rare but serious condition.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Informatics
- Pediatric Critical Care
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Prompt diagnosis of hyperammonemia in infants is critical for effective management.
- Delayed recognition of hyperammonemia is common due to patient rarity and diagnostic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and implement an electronic medical record (EMR)-based tool to aid physicians in detecting hyperammonemia.
- To improve the timely identification of hyperammonemic infants.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of hyperammonemic infant hospitalizations to identify triggers for an EMR warning.
- Design and implementation of an EMR alert system.
- Prospective analysis of the alert system's utilization.
Main Results:
- Blood gas studies were consistently obtained early in infants (average 26 hours before ammonia level).
- The EMR alert could have expedited ammonia testing in 89% of retrospective cases.
- Over six months, the alert activated 184 times, leading to 63 lab evaluations and identifying one hyperammonemic infant.
Conclusions:
- An EMR-based warning system enhances surveillance for hyperammonemia in at-risk infant populations.
- This technological approach can significantly improve the early detection rates of hyperammonemia.
Related Concept Videos
01:23Urea Cycle
The urea cycle describes how liver cells convert ammonia to urea. Ammonia is a toxic waste product of protein catabolism. Land animals must convert ammonia into the less toxic urea which can be safely eliminated by the kidneys through urine. Marine animals excrete ammonia directly, and the surrounding water dilutes the ammonia to safe levels.
01:19Respiratory Assessment: Purpose and Indications
Respiratory assessment is a cornerstone of nursing assessments, crucial for the early detection of patient deterioration. This evaluation transcends routine procedures, representing a critical skill nurses must master to ensure optimal patient care.
Objectives and Importance:
The primary goal of respiratory assessment is to evaluate patients at early risk of clinical deterioration. Since respiratory distress often precedes other signs of declining health, breathing patterns and sounds become a...
Objectives and Importance:
The primary goal of respiratory assessment is to evaluate patients at early risk of clinical deterioration. Since respiratory distress often precedes other signs of declining health, breathing patterns and sounds become a...