An Organization-Wide Initiative to Implement Parent-Performed, Delayed Immersion Bathing

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Care
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Newborn hypothermia is a concern, potentially leading to further medical evaluation.
• Traditional newborn bathing practices may contribute to temperature instability.
• Implementing evidence-based practices is crucial for improving neonatal outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement an organization-wide change to parent-performed, delayed newborn bathing.
• To assess the impact of delayed bathing on newborn temperature regulation.
• To evaluate the feasibility and benefits of this practice change in a large healthcare system.

Main Methods:

• An organization-wide evidence-based practice initiative was conducted across nine military healthcare facilities.
• Newborn bathing was delayed until at least 24 hours of age, with parental instruction on technique.
• Pre- and post-implementation data on newborn temperatures were collected and compared.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant decrease in post-bathing hypothermia was observed after implementing the delayed bathing practice.
• Fewer hypothermic temperature readings were noted in the initial hours of life with the new bathing protocol.
• While not statistically significant, the reduction in hypothermia suggests clinical importance.

Conclusions:

• Delaying the first newborn bath is associated with a significant reduction in immediate post-bath hypothermia.
• This practice change is cost-effective, family-friendly, and can be successfully implemented organization-wide.
• Delayed immersion bathing offers multiple benefits for newborns and families.