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Introduction of triggers for palliative care consultation improves utilization and satisfaction within a level four NICU

Journal of Perinatology volume 38, pages 574–579 (2018)Cite this article

Subjects

Abstract

Objective

We sought to explore the beliefs regarding palliative care team utilization, as well as increase consultation and awareness of the palliative care team’s role in the NICU.

Study design

The study design in this Level 4 NICU included observational time series with multiple planned sequential interventions. Medical chart review was conducted to determine eligibility, and statistical process control charts were used to show performance over time.

Results

Prior to implementation of the triggers, 26% received consultation, which increased to 46% after implementation. There was an increase in level of understanding, knowledge of team’s role, and improved utilization. The time until initial consultation decreased from ~1.5 months to 1 week.

Conclusions

We observed a 20% increase in consultations. Key interventions included continual education, reminders, and clear postage of the trigger list. Written guidelines increase awareness of a palliative care team’s role within a NICU, and provider satisfaction.

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Acknowledgements

We acknowledge the Department of Neonatal and Perinatal Medicine at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, including all fellows and faculty, all the nursing staff and nurse practioners in the NICU, and the members of the CORE Palliative Care team.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Pediatrics, Drexel University of Medicine, St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children, Philadelphia, PA, USA

    Linda T. Nguyen, David B. Cooperberg & Michael L. Spear

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  1. Linda T. Nguyen
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  2. David B. Cooperberg
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  3. Michael L. Spear
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Linda T. Nguyen.

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The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

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Nguyen, L.T., Cooperberg, D.B. & Spear, M.L. Introduction of triggers for palliative care consultation improves utilization and satisfaction within a level four NICU. J Perinatol 38, 574–579 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41372-018-0067-1

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