Seeking to improve care for young patients: Development of tools to support the implementation of the CDC Pediatric mTBI Guideline

Abstract

IntroductionThe Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Pediatric Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) Guideline was created to help standardize diagnosis, prognosis, and management and treatment of pediatric mTBI. This paper describes the process CDC used to develop educational tools, and a dissemination and implementation strategy, in support of the CDC Pediatric mTBI Guideline. MethodsTwo qualitative data collection projects with healthcare providers who care for pediatric patients were conducted. In-depth interviews were used in both projects. Project One examined healthcare providers' guideline use and dissemination preferences. Project Two assessed perceptions of the CDC Pediatric mTBI Guideline educational tools. ResultsProject One brought to light four key areas related to Guideline usage and dissemination preferences, specifically a need for: (1) partnership with professional medical societies; (2) integration into electronic health records, mobile apps, and websites; (3) development of continuing medical education (CME) opportunities; and (4) dissemination through healthcare system leadership. In Project Two, healthcare providers reported that the CDC Pediatric mTBI Guideline educational tools were well-organized, clear and easy to navigate, and informative. Healthcare providers also requested more information on the Guideline methodology. DiscussionAssessment of pediatric healthcare providers' current use of clinical guidelines and preferences for educational tools yielded important insights that helped inform CDC's dissemination and implementation strategy for the Pediatric mTBI Guideline. Practical applicationsThe findings from these data collection projects can also inform other guideline implementation and dissemination efforts among healthcare providers.