Nursing case management in the neonatal intensive care unit. Part 1: Pioneering new territory

Nursing case management is a model of care delivery that focuses on achieving optimal patient outcomes in expected time frames while containing costs. This is accomplished through a multidisciplinary team approach, guided by a multidisciplinary care plan, called a critical pathway. This model of care meets the standards of regulatory agencies and is in line with health care reform activities at the federal level. It should be considered as an effective, new way to provide care in the NICU.