Issues in the NICU

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Specializes in NICU.

I am in nursing school and currently need to write a paper on a current issue/practice guideline in an area of nursing, where I chose NICU.

Could anyone please suggest an issue or practice guideline that you question in your practice? (preferably something that has some research done, since it is an evidence based paper)

Thank you!

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Specializes in NICU.

Just off the top of my head, infection control would be good...A big issue in my NICU at the moment is what are some good ways to decrease the amt of line related blood stream infections? Do you clean ports with chloraprep vs alcohol? 2% chloraprep or 3% chloraprep? how long do you clean to kill everything? It seems our guidelines on this change weekly so I'm not sure how conclusive you would be able to get. Also, is it necessary to wear gowns and gloves everytime you touch or hold an infant? Some units are strict about this and others not. Good luck!

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Specializes in NICU.

I love the infection idea. We have similar issues like that on our unit. There is also lots of info on co-bedding twins (in the same crib or isolette) and kangaroo care (when it should or should not be done), NICU staff wearing their own scrubs or hospital issued scrubs (does it effect infection rates), breastmilk (are their medications that Mom takes or diseases/infections that Mom has to make it unsafe).

Good Luck!:heartbeat

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Specializes in NICU.

Thank you!

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