Neonatal Glucose Testing via Prompted Intervention During the Pretransport Phase of Care

Abstract

Neonatal hypoglycemia is a common metabolic problem. Critically ill neonates require effective glucose metabolism to survive and thrive. Timely and urgent transport of these neonates from a level I/II nursery to a level III NICU is often needed related to complex medical and nursing care requirements. The stabilization phase prior to transport can be chaotic, resulting in a less than optimal frequency of glucose testing. Inadequate testing may result in undetected hypoglycemia that can lead to lifelong and serious neurodevelopmental sequela. The internationally utilized S.T.A.B.L.E. curriculum, which guides postresuscitation/pretransport stabilization, has an evaluative component known as the Pretransport Stabilization Self-Assessment Tool (PSSAT). This tool allows the referral hospital staff and transport team to track glucose levels during the pretransport phase of care at 3 distinct points in time. Utilization of the PSSAT has been shown to successfully prompt glucose testing that is reflective of the S.T.A.B.L.E. curriculum.