What are some straightforward topics to discuss with the pediatrics team regarding newborn nursery care?

Engaging Newborn Nursery Topics for a 5-10 Minute Talk

For a brief 5-10 minute talk to your pediatrics team on newborn nursery care, focus on neonatal hypoglycemia management, as it combines clinical importance with practical application and has clear guidelines.

Top Topic Recommendations

1. Neonatal Hypoglycemia Management

• Neonatal hypoglycemia affects up to 15% of all newborns and represents one of the most frequent metabolic disturbances requiring intervention 1
• Early identification of at-risk infants (late preterm, SGA, IDM, LGA) is essential for preventing adverse neurological outcomes 2
• Present the latest treatment algorithm:
  • Initial management with early breastfeeding augmented with oral dextrose gel 3
  • Monitor pre-feed glucose concentrations rather than post-feed 4
  • Emphasize that treatment should not be delayed while waiting for laboratory confirmation 1

2. Safe Sleep and Skin-to-Skin Care

• Discuss components of safe positioning during skin-to-skin care to prevent sudden unexpected postnatal collapse (SUPC) 5
• Present the 10-point checklist for safe positioning:
  • Ensure infant's face is visible and not covered 5
  • Position infant's head in "sniffing" position with straight neck 5
  • Cover infant's back with blankets while maintaining proper positioning 5
• Emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring during skin-to-skin care, especially in the first 2 hours of life 5

3. Newborn Physical Assessment Essentials

• Review key components of the comprehensive newborn examination 6
• Discuss assessment of feeding patterns, including direct observation of breastfeeding technique 6
• Emphasize monitoring for jaundice with appropriate bilirubin measurement protocols 6
• Present verification checklist for completed screenings (metabolic, hearing, pulse oximetry) 6

4. Discharge Planning for High-Risk Neonates

• Discuss the essential elements of discharge planning for high-risk infants 5
• Present the five key components:
  • Identification and preparation of in-home caregivers 5
  • Development of nutritional care plan 5
  • Equipment and supply sourcing 5
  • Coordination with primary care physician 5
  • Assessment of home physical facilities 5
• Emphasize the importance of having at least two responsible caregivers trained in necessary care 5

5. Neonatal Epidermolysis Bullosa Management

• Present preventative care strategies for handling neonates with EB 5
• Discuss emergency management protocols, including:
  • Proper lifting techniques (flat hands and side roll) 5
  • Preventative taping for procedures 5
  • Adaptations for monitoring and blood draws 5
• Emphasize the importance of specialized education for all healthcare providers 5

Presentation Tips

• Use a case-based approach to illustrate key points
• Include 1-2 visual aids (algorithm or checklist)
• Leave time for 1-2 questions at the end
• Provide a handout with key points and references for team members to keep

Remember that focusing on practical, applicable information that can immediately improve clinical care will make your brief talk most valuable to the pediatrics team.