Full Course Description

Assessing and Treating Infant Feeding and Swallowing Disorders in the NICU with a Focus on High-Risk Populations

Neuroprotective feeding practices in the NICU are critical for optimizing long-term developmental outcomes for all premature and medically complex infants. While many infants discharge from the NICU feeding orally, most are not yet skilled or mature feeders many continue to require support. Infants born extremely pre-term or with certain medical diagnoses are especially at risk for both acute and long term feeding and swallowing problems. Being able to identify these “high risk” infants is critical when working with fragile feeders in the NICU and for developing safe and supportive feeding care plans in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team. This course will discuss best practices for management of infant feeding and swallowing disorders within the NICU including comprehensive assessment, close collaboration with the medical team, and clinical decision making for implementing neuroprotective interventions with an emphasis on family-centered care. Case studies will be presented to enhance critical thinking and application of knowledge.

Program Information

Outline

Introduction

Neuroprotective feeding practices in the NICU

Advocacy and education
Family centered care

Comprehensive Evaluation of Feeding and Swallowing

Clinical bedside evaluation
- chart review
  - Identifying high-risk infants
- Pre-feeding assessment
- Breast/Bottle trials
- Collaboration with team
Instrumental assessment
- Indications and timing
- Study selection
  - MBSS
  - FEES
- Interpreting results
  - Developing feeding plan with medical team and family

Individualized Feeding Plan

Family-centered
Pre-feeding stimulation and therapeutic feeds
Breast feeding
Bottle feeding
Practice challenges
Discharge planning

Case Studies

Objectives

Identify 5 medical diagnoses known to place infants at a higher risk for feeding and swallowing impairments.
State the advantages and limitations for both MBSS and FEES.
Give the rationale behind specific pre-feeding and feeding strategies covered during the course
Identify 3 bottle feeding myths

Target Audience

Lactation Consultants
Nurses
Nurse Practitioners
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapist Assistants
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Speech Language Pathologists
Other Healthcare Professions

Copyright : 02/08/2024

Achieving Breastfeeding Success in the NICU

Let’s explore the multifaceted world of breastfeeding in the NICU, which includes both art and science. Discover cutting-edge techniques and evidence-based practices to empower these tiny warriors...including skin-to-skin contact, early breastfeeding initiation, breast milk expression approaches, safe and efficient milk storage, enteral feeding, and more! Create a supportive breastfeeding environment in the NICU that allows you to provide holistic support for premature infants on their path to health and growth.

Program Information

Objectives

Describe the specific challenges and requirements of breastfeeding premature infants, considering their gestational age, medical conditions, and nutritional needs.
Discuss the importance of skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding initiation in the NICU and describe best practices for facilitating these crucial bonding experiences.
Explain the methods and technologies available for expressing, collecting, and storing breast milk for premature infants, ensuring safe and efficient milk management.
Describe the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to create a supportive breastfeeding environment in the NICU.
Utilize appropriate assessment tools to monitor the feeding progress and nutritional needs of premature infants, making necessary adjustments to the breastfeeding plan.
Equip parents with the knowledge and skills necessary to continue breastfeeding and provide care for their premature infants at home after discharge from the NICU.

Outline

Challenges and Requirements

Uncover the unique challenges of breastfeeding premature infants.
Explore the impact of gestational age, medical conditions, and nutritional needs.

Skin-to-Skin Contact and Early Initiation

Emphasize the importance of skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding initiation in the NICU.
Delve into best practices for facilitating these vital bonding experiences.

Expressing, Collecting, and Storing Breast Milk

Explore methods and technologies for efficient milk management.
Ensure safe handling, expressing, collecting, and storing of breast milk for premature infants.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Recognize the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration in creating a supportive breastfeeding environment in the NICU.

Assessment and Adjustment

Utilize appropriate assessment tools to monitor feeding progress and nutritional needs of premature infants.
Make necessary adjustments to the breastfeeding plan for optimal care.

Empowering Parents for Home Care

Equip parents with the knowledge and skills needed to continue breastfeeding and provide care for their premature infants at home after NICU discharge.

Target Audience

Registered Dietitians
Dietetic Technicians
Nurses
Other Health care Professionals

Copyright : 02/08/2024

Pain Assessment and Management in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

In the heart of every neonatal clinician lies the profound challenge of understanding and alleviating pain in our smallest patients and avoiding short- and long-term adverse sequelae. In this session, Dr. Humphries will guide you through the intricacies of neonatal pain...so that you can recognize even the most subtle cues and empower you to provide relief. Learn the latest evidence about optimal pain management and the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork in delivering comprehensive neonatal pain care.

Program Information

Objectives

Accurately assess using available scales and tools.
Determine appropriate pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions to relieve pain in the neonate and document.
Evaluate the effectiveness of pain management regimen during reassessment and document.
Teach parents or caregivers how to assess and manage pain for neonates after discharge home.

Outline

Primary Principles of Neonatal Pain

Regardless of past assumptions, neonates feel pain.
Assessment of severity and the effects of analgesia can be measured in the neonate.
Neonatal morbidity may be increased by prolonged or severe pain.

Pain Measurement in Neonates

Reliable and validated pain scales.
How do we measure pain in a neonates
Physiologic measurements (vital signs, clinical signs, serum samples)
Behavioral measurements

Developmental Consequences of Pain

Physiologic development
Anatomic Development
Neurodevelopment

Pharmacologic Regimens for pain

Choosing effective and safe analgesics
Drug doses appropriate for age and gestation
Known Pharmacokinetics
Known Pharmacodynamics

Non-Pharmacological Treatment for Pain

Avoiding or minimizing painful or stressful procedures
Swaddling during procedures or stressful events
Skin to Skin
Nonnutritive sucking
Oral Sucrose

Effectiveness of Pain Management

Reassess pain
Document effectiveness of pain relief

Neonatal Withdrawal

Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS)
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS)

Education Component for Providers and Families

Written guidelines and protocols for the management of pain in neonates
Health care providers have the responsibility to identify, prevent, and manage pain in neonates.
Sedation is not a pain relief and could mask the ability to respond to painful stimuli.

Limitations of the Research and Potential Risks

Limited studies on pain management in neonates
Barriers related to multiple reasons (fear of use, misconceptions of pain in a neonate, long-term effects of analgesic use, etc.

Target Audience

Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Nurses
Nursing Assistants
Restorative Nursing Staff
Long-Term Care Professionals

Copyright : 02/08/2024

Collaborative Neonatal Intensive Care Support Team

In the NICU, where vulnerability meets resilience, families face unimaginable challenges. As a healthcare professional, you have the incredible opportunity to make a monumental difference in the experience of families. Discover how teamwork, empathy, and effective communication can transform the NICU from a stressful to a nurturing environment. Gain actionable insights and strategies to implement immediately in your NICU practice, enhancing the well-being of both infants and their families.

Program Information

Objectives

Determine the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration within the NICU setting to foster a nurturing environment for families.
Develop effective communication strategies to better connect with and support NICU families during their challenging journeys, leading to improved patient and family satisfaction.
Describe strategies to engage parents in care participation, promoting parental empowerment and increasing parental confidence, resulting in increased discharge readiness and a smooth transition from hospital to home.

Outline

Interprofessional Collaboration

Review current standards for levels of neonatal care
Identify Interprofessional NICU team members
NICU physical design layouts and environmental considerations

Effective Communication

The art of shared decision-making
Achieving health equity
Unmasking implicit bias
Strategies and approaches for effective communication

Supporting Families

Building and maintaining relationships
Resiliency skills: Equipping families
Empowering families: Enabling self-management
Best practices for guiding families

Target Audience

Nurses
Nurse Practitioners
Physician Assistants
Other Professions

Copyright : 02/08/2024

Nurturing Connections: Exploring the Mouth-Body Connection in Developing Infants

Join us for an enlightening session that delves into the fascinating world of the mouth-body connection in developing infants. We will explore the crucial role of oral motor skills, sensory experiences, and early feeding behaviors in an infant’s overall development. We will explore evidence-based strategies and techniques to support infants’ development.

Program Information

Objectives

Implement intentional therapeutic touch into their daily sessions, as well as educate and empower caregivers.
Implement early positioning with regards to the long-term impact on developmental feeding and ongoing craniofacial development.
Analyze and advocate for the foundational skills needed prior to bottle or breast introduction.

Outline

Sucking Reflex

Begins in utero
After birth at term...coordinated suck-swallow-breathe reflex
Interruption in sequence in premature birth
Reflexes and movement patterns...influenced by environmental, physiological, neurological, and behavioral factors.

Posture and Mobility

Affect feeding patterns and impact a baby's posture and mobility
Function of the mouth and body are inextricably linked
Understanding this connection and avoid treating either aspect in isolation

Neonatal Movement Patterns

Foundation in the development of the baby's oral motor skills
Subsequent feeding progression and feeding journey beyond the NICU
Best practices in caring for premature infants include intentional touch and handling
Optimal base for oral motor and respiratory patterns
Functional movement patterns and positioning for optimal development

Target Audience

Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Pediatric Nurses
Educators
Dietitians
Case Managers
Nurse Practitioners

Copyright : 02/09/2024

Micronutrients in Premature Neonates: Bringing the Macro Problems to Parenteral Nutrition

Nutritional care for preterm neonates remains a challenge in clinical practice. In this session, we will delve into assessing nutritional needs of neonates, the significance of micronutrients in the growth and development of neonates, and evidence-based recommendations for TPN administration. You will be well-equipped to effectively manage micronutrient supplementation and TPN in neonates, within a team environment, ensuring optimal nutrition and growth for these vulnerable patients.

Program Information

Objectives

Compare the different guideline recommendations for supplementation of micronutrients.
Evaluate micronutrient requirements for premature neonates.
Discuss the role in monitoring concentrations of micronutrients.
Explain why certain patient populations are at risk for deficiencies.
Investigate problem solving options to navigate dosage form limitations and drug shortages.
Identify areas of opportunity to further research and upcoming resources available for TPN.

Outline

Guideline Comparison

Dive into the neonatal nutrition guidelines
Spotlight differences in practices and resources
Analyze current products with guideline recommendations

Micronutrient Insights

Understand the role of each micronutrient
Identify the risk of deficiency and toxicity
Navigate dosing challenges and monitoring limitations

Preterm Neonates: Dosing and Products

Explore the latest research on dosing in preterm neonates
Uncover product limitations and applications
Apply knowledge to patient case scenarios

Patient Care Scenarios

Assess for deficiency and toxicity
Evaluate lab data and create monitoring plans
Tackle shortage management for complex cases

Electrolyte Disturbances

Focus on intrauterine grown restriction
Spotlight recent product shortages and challenges
Tackle issues with multivitamins, calcium gluconate, and cysteine

Copyright : 02/09/2024

Comprehensive Management of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)

Delve into the evolving nature of Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE), uncovering the cascade of biochemical events that lead to irreversible neuronal injury. Gain valuable insights into the identification of causes, comprehensive management strategies, and potential outcomes, equipping neonatal healthcare professionals with the knowledge to make informed decisions in the critical are of newborns.

Program Information

Objectives

Describe Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE).
Identify the different causes of neonatal encephalopathy.
Outline the management approach for HIE.
Discuss potential outcomes of HIE.

Outline

Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)

Definition of HIE and its prevalence in full-term newborns
Pathophysiology of HIE, including the cascade of adverse biochemical events
Evolving nature of HIE and the progression to irreversible neuronal injury

Different Causes of Neonatal Encephalopathy

Risk factors and potential causes leading to neonatal encephalopathy
Identification of prenatal, intrapartum, and postnatal factors contributing to HIE
Importance of recognizing and addressing these causes promptly

Management Approach for HIE

Early recognition and assessment of HIE in newborns
Immediate and ongoing medical interventions to mitigate hypoxic ischemic injury
Therapeutic hypothermia and other emerging treatments for HIE management
Interdisciplinary approach involving obstetricians, neonatologists, and other healthcare professionals

Potential Outcomes of HIE

Long-term consequences of HIE on neurodevelopment
Impact on cerebral palsy, mental retardation, learning disabilities, and epilepsy
Strategies for early intervention and rehabilitation to improve outcomes
Consideration of family support and counseling in the context of potential outcomes

Copyright : 02/09/2024

Seizing the Spotlight: Understanding Neonatal Seizures

Neonatal seizures are a commonly encountered neurologic condition in neonates … with unique pathophysiology and electrographic findings resulting in clinical manifestations and diagnostic nuances. We will discuss the evaluation and treatment of neonatal seizures and highlight the role of the interprofessional team in evaluating and treating infants with seizures … including transition to home.

Program Information

Objectives

Discuss the most common causes and which conditions would increase the risk for seizures in the neonate.
Review the diagnostic process for neonatal seizures.
Outline the best practices for the management of neonatal seizures.
Identify team strategies for improving care coordination and outcomes in neonates with seizures.

Outline

Pathophysiology and Clinical Manifestations of Seizures in the Neonatal Period

Common conditions associated with neonatal seizures
How to differentiate between abnormal movements and seizures

Diagnosis

Discuss conventional electroencephalogram for diagnosis and continued monitoring
Discuss amplitude integrated electroencephalogram for screening and diagnosis
Advanced imaging to aid in determination of cause and assess injury

Treatment

Identify common medications used to treat seizures in the neonatal population
Strategies for mitigating effects of neonatal seizures on long term outcomes
Limitation of current evidence and potential risks

Target Audience

Nurse Educators
Nurse Practitioners
Advanced Nurse Practitioners
Critical Care Nurses
Nurses - Obstetrics/Gynecology
Pediatric Nurses
Neonatal Nurses

Copyright : 02/09/2024

Respiratory Distress Syndrome of the Neonate: A Comprehensive Approach

The first hours and days of life are of crucial importance for the newborn infant, when they are particularly vulnerable to a range of respiratory diseases, many unique to this period of early life as the developing fluid-filled fetal lungs adapt to the extrauterine environment. The clinical signs of respiratory distress are important to recognize and further investigate, to identify the underlying cause. The epidemiology, diagnostic features and management of common neonatal respiratory conditions are covered in this presentation. 

Program Information

Objectives

Determine the common respiratory problems encountered in neonatology 
Discuss the evidence-based management of respiratory disease in neonatology 
Develop a framework for diagnosis of an infant with respiratory distress.

Outline

Introduction to Neonatal Respiratory Challenges

Overview of Common Respiratory Problems in Neonatology
Prevalence and Impact on Neonatal Health
- Overview of respiratory mechanics
Evidence-Based Management of Neonatal Respiratory Disease
- Presentation of Respiratory Distress
- Common and Non-specific
- Differential Diagnosis
Evidence-Based Practices in Treatment and Care
Case-Study

Diagnostic Framework for Neonatal Respiratory Distress

Understanding the Spectrum of Respiratory Distress in Neonates
- Pneumonia
- Pulmonary AIr Leak
- Pneumothorax
- Pneumomediastinum
- Pulmonary Interstitial Emphysema (PIE)
Physical Examination and Diagnostic Tools
- Transillumination
- Chest Radiograph
- Needle Thoracostomy
Building a Diagnostic Framework

Wrap-up and Key Takeaways

Target Audience

Respiratory Therapists
Nurses
NP
PAs
Physicians

Copyright : 11/17/2023

Navigating Challenges in Premature Infant Transport: Ensuring Safe Transfers

In the high-stakes realm of neonatal care, every second counts, and every move must be precise. In this session, you'll gain an invaluable understanding of the specialized skills required to handle fragile neonates during these life-defining moments. Led by an experienced transport team member, you'll master techniques for assessing and stabilizing neonates and ensuring a seamless transition to a higher acuity NICU, where these tiny patients continue their fight for life.

Program Information

Objectives

Perform a thorough evaluation of clinical stability of an infant to ensure their readiness for safe transfer.
Collaborate seamlessly with a multidisciplinary team to convey critical patient information, anticipate potential issues, and execute well-coordinated transport plans to minimize risks.
Be prepared to receive and provide immediate care for transported infants, ensuring a seamless handover process, smooth transition of care and maximizing the chances of positive outcomes for these vulnerable neonates.

Outline

Introduction to Neonatal Transport

Importance of neonatal transport
Key factors influencing transport decisions

Modes of Transport

Ambulance transport...Advantages and limitations
Proper equipment and setup
Airlift transport...When to consider
Ensuring safety during air transport

Assessing Neonatal Stability

Comprehensive neonatal assessment
Indicators of stability and readiness for transport
Strategies for stabilizing the neonate before transport

The Hand-off Process

Effective communication between sending and receiving facilities
Standardized hand-off protocols
Sharing critical patient information
Ensuring continuity of care during the hand-off

Supporting Parents

The emotional aspect of neonatal transport
Providing information and reassurance to parents
Involving parents in the care process when possible
Resources and support for families

Emergency Response and Decision-Making

Handling complications during transport
Rapid decision-making in high-stress situations
Ensuring the safety of the neonate and transport team

Conclusion and Future Directions

Recap of key takeaways
The evolving landscape of neonatal transport
Natural disasters preparation
Commitment to ongoing professional development in neonatal care

Target Audience

Respiratory Therapists
Nurses
NP
PAs
Physicians

Copyright : 12/06/2023

Knowing More Than the ABCs to Promote Safe Infant Sleep Practices

NICU graduates, especially those with racial/ethnic disparities are at a high risk for sudden unexpected infant death (SUID). Learn how to successfully establish a safe sleep program in the hospital setting and help parents transition these practices to home. Tactics to talk with families about safe sleep and risk reduction strategies will be presented. Next steps will focus on sustaining our efforts and increasing community engagement to further decrease SUID rates.

Program Information

Objectives

Analyze the history of safe sleep practices
Identify barriers and opportunities to promote infant sleep safety in the hospital and after discharge
Recognize effective communication techniques for family engagement
Discuss the importance of developing a safe sleep program

Outline

History of safe sleep practices

Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) defined
AAP recommendations – 30 years of evidence

In hospital initiatives / safe sleep program

Policy development
Crib cards
Model behavior
Sleep sacks
Discharge gift

Barriers / opportunities in NICU and nursery

Family and Staff Education
Developmental Care
Supportive positioning
Staff workload and personal experiences

Health Disparities

Mortality gap
State variations
Racial/Ethnic trends
Decreasing racial disparities

Home health / pediatrician office follow up

Discuss sleep safety
Assess sleep environment
Risk reduction efforts

Next steps

Sustainability tactics
Community engagement

Target Audience

Nurses
Nurse Practitioners
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapy Assistants
Physician Assistants
Other Professions

Optimizing Ventilation of the Premature Infant

In the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) the aim of any ventilation strategy is to support the neonate’s respiratory system during compromise while limiting any long-term damage to the lungs and the skin. In this session, we will review the many different ventilation modes and strategies that are available to assist with the optimization of non-invasive ventilation management.

Program Information

Objectives

Using evidence, differentiate between the variety of ventilation modalities reviewed.
Differentiate between flow-generated CPAP and bubble CPAP.
Distinguish the various NIV interface options.
Propose the device selection between different systems but the same modality.

Outline

Standard NC

Type and indications

High flow NC

Review Vapotherm system
Review Optiflow system
Heating and Humidity

CPAP

Flow generated
Bubble
Heating and Humidity

Non-Invasive Ventilation modes in various ventilators

Review differences between a few ventilators and their NIV modes and how they work
Review interfaces differences connected to ventilator
- RAM NC
- F&P Interface
Heating and Humidity

Complications

Target Audience

Lactation Consultants
Nurses
Nurse Practitioners
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapist Assistants
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Speech Language Pathologists
Other Healthcare Professions

Neonatal Sepsis

One of the most common clinical issues you will encounter while working in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is neonatal sepsis. Do you feel confident in identifying a neonate’s unique risk factors, along with recognizing the subtle signs and symptoms for neonatal sepsis? What about collecting and analyzing the relevant diagnostics, integrating multiple clinical interventions, and participating in infection prevention measures, all the while promoting family engagement to best manage these situations? Or would you like a refresher?

Whether you are a 20-year NICU veteran, transitioning to the NICU, or a new grad, this dynamic recording led by Mel Cook MSN, RNC-NIC, C-ELBW, PHN, DNP-c will equip you with the knowledge and confidence you need to effectively manage neonatal sepsis.

Program Information

Objectives

Define the physiology of a neonate’s immune system.
Identify a neonate’s risk factors.
Characterize Early Onset Sepsis vs Late Onset Sepsis.
Describe the clinical presentation of a septic neonate.
Evaluate the diagnostics for neonatal sepsis.
Discuss the clinical treatments for neonatal sepsis.

Outline

What is Neonatal Sepsis
- Impact
- How the Immune System Works
  - Innate Immune System
  - Adaptive Immune System
- Routes of Transmission
  - Congenital
  - Perinatal
  - Postnatal
Risk Factors
- Maternal
  - History and Delivery Summary
  - TORCHS
    - Toxoplasmosis
    - Rubella
    - Cytomegalovirus
    - Herpes Simplex Virus
    - Syphilis
- Neonatal
  - Prematurity and Sepsis
  - Infection Risks and Evidence-Based Infection Prevention Strategies
    - Skin Integrity
    - Respiratory Tract
    - Gastrointestinal Tract
- Hospital
  - Environmental Exposure
  - Medical Interventions
Early Onset Sepsis
- Definition
- Group B Streptococcus (GBS)
  - Centers of Disease Control (CDC) Guidelines
  - Risk Assessment
- Escherichia Coli (E. Coli)
Late Onset Sepsis (LOS)
- Definition
- Coagulase-Negative Staphylococcus (Coag-Neg Staph)
- Care Bundle
  - LOS
  - Central Lines
Infection Prevention
- Hand Hygiene
- NICU Environment
Clinical Presentation
- Vital Signs
- Early Clinical Presentation
- Late Clinical Presentation
- Differential Diagnosis
Diagnostics
- Blood Culture
- Complete Blood Count with Differential
  - Absolute Neutrophil Count (ANC)
  - I/T Ratio
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP)
- Lumbar Puncture
3 Case Studies
Clinical Treatments
- Antibiotics
  - Ampicillin
  - Gentamicin
  - Vancomycin
  - Amphotericin B
  - Ceftazidime
  - Clindamycin
- Respiratory Support
  - Conventional Mechanical Ventilation
  - High Frequency Ventilation
  - Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
  - Nasal Cannula
- Hemodynamics
  - Cardiac Output Equation
  - Fluid Bolus
  - Dopamine
  - Dobutamine
  - Epinephrine
Family Perceptions
- Sepsis is Traumatic
- Family-Centered Care
NICU Caregiver Considerations
- Full Circle

Target Audience

Nurses
Nurse Practitioners
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapy Assistants
Physician Assistants
Speech Language Pathologists
Other Professions

Hypoglycemia and Hyperglycemia in the Neonate

Whether it is hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia in a neonate, it signals a failure of the normal transition from fetal to postnatal patterns of glucose homeostasis, and both can lead to complications and are important risk factors for mortality and morbidity in the neonatal period. In this session, Julia Muzzy Williamson will provide a comprehensive overview of both conditions, their complex etiologies, and the most current guidelines for management. Learn how to work within the interdisciplinary team to treat these challenging conditions and improve outcomes for these little patients.

Program Information

Objectives

Differentiate between the pathophysiology of neonatal hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia.
Develop a management approach for neonatal hyper/hypoglycemia.
Determine the complications of neonatal hyper/hypoglycemia.
Integrate current interprofessional guidelines to improve outcomes for patients with neonatal hyper/hypoglycemia.

Outline

Hyperglycemia
- Etiology
  - Prematurity and Intrauterine growth restriction
  - Increased stress hormones
  - Causes related to feeding/total parenteral nutrition (TPN)
  - Sepsis
  - Iatrogenic
  - Transient neonatal diabetes mellitus
  - Drugs
- Evaluation
- History and Physical
- Workup
- Glucose
- Electrolytes
- Differential Diagnoses
- Treatment and Management - Interdisciplinary
- Glucose Infusion Rate (GIR)
- Role of Insulin
Hypoglycemia
- Etiology
  - Insufficient glucose supply, with low glycogen or fat stores or poor mechanisms of glucose production
  - Increased glucose utilization (excessive insulin production or increased metabolic demand)
  - Failure of counter-regulatory mechanisms
- Evaluation
- History and Physical
- Workup
- Differential Diagnoses
- Treatment and Management - Interdisciplinary
- Early feeding
- Intravenous dextrose
- Second line - corticosteroids

Target Audience

Nurses
Nurse Practitioners
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapy Assistants
Physician Assistants
Speech Language Pathologists
Other Professions

Transition from NICU to Home

Evaluation of the fragile infant takes special skills and connection to family. There may be intensive treatments based on work – rest and goals established, to catch up milestones with their peers. Looking at the medical findings, scans, genetic tests, equipment needs will provide knowledge about what is happening on the outside. Neurological findings enlighten the therapist to what is working and what may need to be rewired for optimum function. Accommodations may need to be designed for special cases. Tracheostomies, feeding tubes and oxygen are a few items we must work around to encourage rolling, coming to sitting and other milestones.

Program Information

Objectives

Create a list of findings to guide treatment and goal setting for the newborn.
Evaluate motion, position tolerance, and symmetry of the infant and how it relates to occupation and participation.
Apply knowledge to enhance progress toward developmental milestones.

Outline

From floating in amniotic fluid to gravity and ground: What to do when they are homeward bound

History
Neurological findings
Genetics

Function

Evaluate motor functions that are working
Assess what is not working well

Asymmetry – face, neck, trunk, upper and lower extremities

Positional movements

Tummy time
Supine positions
Side lying
Accommodations for tracheostomy, oxygen, tube feeding equipment

Asymmetrical presentations

Torticollis
Scoliosis
Tone
Arm and leg lengths

Determine pain influence

Methods of treatment
Myofascial assistance

Building a home program for the newborn

Activities to gently awaken the nervous system
Positioning and movement

Target Audience

Lactation Consultants
Nurses
Nurse Practitioners
Physical Therapists
Physical Therapist Assistants
Occupational Therapists
Occupational Therapy Assistants
Speech Language Pathologists
Other Healthcare Professions