Nursing case management for children with failure to thrive

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Nursing
• Case Management
• Child Health

Background:

• Nonorganic failure to thrive (NOFT) presents unique challenges in pediatric tertiary care.
• Effective case management is crucial for addressing complex health and developmental needs of children with NOFT.
• Standardized care pathways can improve care coordination and outcomes for children with NOFT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a case management approach for pediatric nonorganic failure to thrive.
• To present a 4-day care path detailing staff nursing functions in the nurse case manager role.
• To discuss considerations for developing care paths for organic-based failure to thrive.

Main Methods:

• An advanced practice nurse led the formation of a planning committee.
• A care path was constructed to outline nursing interventions.
• The case management model was evaluated for effectiveness.

Main Results:

• A 4-day care path was developed, specifying nurse case manager responsibilities.
• The model demonstrated a structured approach to managing pediatric nonorganic failure to thrive.
• Parental input was identified as valuable for guiding interventions in organic failure to thrive.

Conclusions:

• Case management, facilitated by an advanced practice nurse, offers a structured approach to pediatric nonorganic failure to thrive.
• A defined care path enhances the role of the nurse case manager.
• Tailored care path development is essential for both nonorganic and organic failure to thrive, incorporating parental insights.