Collaboration to Improve Neuroprotection and Neuropromotion in the NICU: A Quality Improvement Initiative

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Neuroscience
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Quality Improvement in Healthcare

Background:

• Neuroprotective and neuropromotive (NP2) strategies are crucial for optimizing outcomes in premature infants.
• Developmental care is now recognized as foundational for the long-term neurodevelopment of micropremature infants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the implementation of NP2 strategies using quality improvement (QI) methods in a multi-center consortium.
• To share examples of QI education and tools to improve NP2 strategy implementation.

Main Methods:

• A consortium of 11 NICUs in the US and Canada collaborated on implementing NP2 strategies.
• Quality improvement education and tools were utilized, guided by potentially better practices.
• Assessment of NP2 practices involved surveys and practice audits.

Main Results:

• Increased family education and support during painful experiences were observed.
• Significant increases in skin-to-skin holding and two-person caregiving were reported.
• Enhanced focus on reducing unnecessary painful procedures was a key outcome.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative group approaches to NP2 strategy implementation foster both collective and individual center improvements.
• Consistent application of NP2 practices is essential for ensuring successful outcomes in neonatal care.
• QI initiatives effectively enhanced the provision of developmental care and reduced iatrogenic harm in NICU settings.