Sternal Precautions and Prone Positioning of Infants Following Median Sternotomy: A Nationwide Survey.

Abstract

To describe current practice of pediatric sternal precautions (PSPs) and prone positioning restrictions (PPRs) in infants after median sternotomy. A Web-based survey with 21 questions was developed on the basis of a review of current literature and expert consultation. Snowball sampling resulted in 68 participants well represented by profession throughout the United States. Approximately 80% of participants reported having institutional protocols for PSPs. Most common reported PSPs were no lifting at the axillae and no pulling of arms to achieve sitting. PSPs also included PPRs. The opinions of participants supported no PPRs or modified PPRs compared with strict PPRs. Types of PPRs varied across participants, with the majority of participants in favor of modified PPRs while PSPs were less varied. Research is needed to examine the effects of PSPs and PPRs in infants post-median sternotomy.