Admission Temperature Research Articles

Hypothermia-Prevalence and risk factors in neonates admitted to a neonatal unit in Tanzania.

We aimed to study the prevalence of hpyothermia among neonates, the association between admission temperature and neonatal mortality, and the impact of radiant warmers. In an observational prospective study, we included 1988 neonates born at Haydom Lutheran Hospital, Tanzania, and admitted to the neonatal unit from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2022. We explored risk factors for hypothermia (<36.0°C, primary outcome) and newborn mortality by admission temperature (secondary outcome) with adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for birth weight and bag and mask ventilation. Hypothermia was present in 47.0% (n = 935) at admission, 46.9% (n = 932) were normothermic or mildly hypothermic (36.0-37.5°C), and 6.1% (n = 121) hyperthermic. Of those admitted to the neonatal unit, 217 (10.9%) died. For every 1°C increase in temperature, neonatal mortality decreased by 31% (aOR 0.69, 95% CI 0.59-0.82). Admission temperature <34.5°C was strongly associated with mortality (aOR 3.56, 1.87-6.79). Mild hypothermia (36.0-36.5°C) was not associated with mortality (aOR 1.30, 0.72-2.37). Risk factors for hypothermia were bag and mask ventilation (aOR 2.53, 2.07-3.11) and low birth weight. The introduction of radiant warmers from 1 May 2022 was associated with a decrease in hypothermia (aOR 0.54, 0.41-0.72). Hypothermia is prevalent even in tropical settings and maintaining normothermia after birth is critical and achievable for reducing neonatal mortality.

Comparative evaluation of axillary and rectal temperatures across different gestational ages in newborns admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit: a cross-sectional study.

Maintaining normothermia is crucial for neonatal survival, especially in preterm infants prone to temperature instability. This study evaluates the correlation and variability between axillary and rectal temperatures at Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) admission across gestational age ranges of 23-28, 29-32, 33-36, and ≥ 37 weeks, aiming to inform improved neonatal thermal management strategies. This cross-sectional study was conducted at King Abdulaziz Medical City, Riyadh, from October 2023 to April 2024, involving 160 infants. Admission temperatures were measured using digital thermometers. Data analysis included ANOVA/Kruskal-Wallis for continuous variables, Chi-square tests for categorical data, Bland-Altman method for agreement assessment, and Pearson correlation coefficients to evaluate temperature correlations. Mean axillary temperature increased from 36.4°C in the 23-28 weeks gestational group, to 36.5°C in the 29-32 weeks group, and to 36.7°C in the 33-36 weeks and ≥ 37 weeks groups, (p = 0.033). Rectal temperature increased from 36.5°C in the 23-28 weeks group, to 36.6°C in the 29-32 weeks group, and reached 36.8°C in both the 33-36 weeks and ≥ 37 weeks groups (p = 0.006). Notable differences between measurement methods were observed in the 33-36 and ≥ 37 weeks groups (p < 0.001), with less pronounced differences in the 23-28 and 29-32 weeks groups. While temperature differences between rectal and axillary measurements remained consistent across all groups at 0.1°C (p = 0.779), neonatal outcomes varied significantly across gestational age groups, with younger infants exhibiting lower survival rates (p < 0.001), higher incidences of hypoglycemia (p < 0.001) and sepsis (p < 0.001), and extended durations of ventilation (p < 0.001) and hospital stay (p < 0.001). Strong correlations between rectal and axillary temperature were found across all age ranges (Pearson coefficients: 0.953 for 23-28 weeks, 0.762 for 29-32 weeks, 0.910 for 33-36 weeks, and 0.761 for ≥ 37 weeks; all p < 0.001). Bland-Altman analysis indicated higher variability in agreement for younger preterm groups, showing limits of agreement ranging from - 0.5 to 0.65°C for 23-28 weeks and - 0.5 to 0.69°C for 29-32 weeks, improving in older groups with - 0.2 to 0.4°C for 33-36 weeks and similarly narrow ranges for ≥ 37 weeks. Both rectal and axillary temperatures showed variation across different age groups, exhibiting a substantial overall correlation. Notable differences between the two methods were observed in the 33-36 weeks and ≥ 37 weeks groups. Younger preterm infants demonstrated greater variability, with enhanced agreement observed in older infants.

Improving Admission Temperature in Infants ≥34 Weeks' Gestation: A Quality Improvement Initiative.

NICU admission for hypothermia is a problem worldwide, with associated morbidity, mortality, and financial costs. Many interventions have been studied for smaller infants, but there has been little focus on infants born ≥34 weeks' gestational age (GA), though most deliveries occur at this gestation. Our primary aim was to improve the proportion of infants ≥34 weeks' GA with normal NICU admission temperature. Secondary outcomes included improvement of the proportion of normal first temperature in all infants ≥34 weeks' GA, independent of NICU admission, and improvement of predefined outcome measures. We completed a root cause analysis, using fishbone and process mapping to determine what factors were contributing to hypothermia. A series of changes were trialed using plan-do-study-act cycles to develop a standard operating procedure, covering both vaginal and cesarean section births. Outcome measures were analyzed using a P-chart as well as traditional statistical tests. We successfully increased the proportion of infants ≥34 weeks' GA with normothermia on NICU admission from 62% to 80% without increasing hyperthermia. In addition, the interventions improved the proportion of delivery room normothermia in all infants born ≥34 weeks' GA and were associated with a decreased need for intravenous therapy for hypoglycemia and the incidence of metabolic acidosis. This quality improvement initiative was successful at improving our institution's rates of normal infant temperature. The methodology used can be applied to other similar centers to improve this common problem.

Readmission and mortality during the first year after an acute stroke: A prospective cohort study from Cameroon.

Hospital readmission after discharge for stroke is associated with high morbidity and mortality. There is a paucity of data on the burden of stroke readmission in most sub-Saharan African countries. We aimed to determine the rate, reasons and predictors of hospital readmission and the mortality rate within 12 months of discharge among stroke survivors in Cameroon. This prospective cohort included patients who survived hospitalization for an acute stroke and who were discharged from two referral hospitals in the capital city of Cameroon between January 2013 and December 2013.We performed logistic regression analysis to identify demographic and clinical factors associated with readmission within 1 year of discharge and causes of readmission. Of the 254 consecutive patients admitted for acute stroke, 198 were discharged alive. There were 107 (54%) males, and their mean age (SD) was 61.7 (13.9) years (range: 10 to 95 years). A total of 30 (15.2%) patients were readmitted following discharge from the index admission over a mean follow-up time of 286.9 (127.6) days. Of these, 14 (46.7%) were discharged and 16 (53.3%) died after readmission. Thirty percent (30%) of readmissions occurred within the first month. The most frequent causes of readmissions were infections (30%) and recurrent stroke (26.7%). Factors associated with readmission in bivariate analysis were initial admission temperature > 37.5°C (risk ratio [RR]: 1.3, p = 0.021) and initial admission Glasgow Coma Score < 14 (RR: p = 1.23, p = 0.019). After stratified adjustment for age and sex, temperature > 37.5°C (adjusted RR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1-1.7, p = 0.036) and GCS <14 (adjusted RR: 1.23, 95% CI: 1-1.6, p = 0.041) were associated with readmission. Readmission after discharge for stroke was common with nearly one third occurring within the first month and more than half dying following readmission. The most common causes of readmission were infections and recurrent stroke.

The Effect of Plastic Wrap Use to Prevent Hypothermia on Neonatal Mortality and Morbidity in Extreme Preterm Infants

Background: Hypothermia immediately afterbirth is common, especially in preterm (PT) infants because of their skin immaturity. If it is prolonged, it can lead to mortality and morbidity. Although plastic wrap (PW) can improve neonatal hypothermia by decreasing evaporative heat loss, its effect on mortality and morbidity is uncertain. Aim: The aim of the study was to detect if PW can decrease mortality and morbidity in PT infants from 240 to 296 weeks’ gestation. Design: The study design was a retrospective study. Setting: The study was conducted at two neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Materials and Methods: NICUs medical records from 2021 to 2023. Statistical Analysis: The data were analyzed using logistic regression analysis. Results: A total of 187 PT infants from 240 to 296-week gestation were admitted to both NICUs during that period, 148 PT infants were included in the study. Mean gestational age (GA) was 27.2 ± 2.7 weeks and mean birth weight was 865 ± 375 g; 75 PT infants (51%) were male, and 30 PT infants (20.2%) were hypothermic on admission. After adjusting for risk factors that potentially increased the mortality, admission temperature did not affect the mortality significantly (odds ratio [OR]: 0.8, confidence interval [CI]: 0.6–1.1). The only factor that increased the mortality significantly was GA (OR: 1.1, CI: 1.05–1.4). The other model that tested the effect of admission temperature on the morbidity showed that none of the morbidities were significantly decreased after adjusting for risk factors, necrotizing enterocolitis (OR: 1.05, CI: 0.8–1.3), intraventricular hemorrhage (OR: 0.8, CI: 0.6–1.09), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (OR: 1.1, CI: 0.8–1.3), retinopathy of prematurity (OR: 1.2, CI: 0.9–1.4), and late-onset sepsis (OR: 1.1, CI: 0.9–1.4). Conclusion: PW applied immediately after birth seemed to improve admission temperature in PT infants from 240 to 296-week gestation, but it did not improve neonatal mortality or morbidity.

Quality Improvement Project to Reduce Admission Hypothermia of Preterm Infants Born at Less than 32 Weeks or 1,500 g

Purpose: Hypothermia upon admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) contributes significantly to various neonatal complications, particularly in preterm infants. This study aimed to assess the impact of quality improvement (QI) interventions, including using plastic bags and head caps, and adjusting delivery room temperatures, on improving the admission body temperature and reducing hypothermia in infants born at less than 32 weeks or weighing 1,500 g.Methods: This study retrospectively analyzed the medical records of infants born at less than 32 weeks or weighing 1,500 g who admitted to the NICU at Samsung Medical Center from January 2022 to February 2024. The QI program that was initiated in April 2023 focused on managing admission temperatures using plastic bags and head caps, and maintaining delivery room temperatures at ≥25 °C. The admission temperature and short-term outcomes pre- and post-QI were compared.Results: In a study of 270 patients, implementing QI initiatives significantly raised the admission temperature from 36.2±0.5 to 36.4±0.4 °C (p&lt;0.01), particularly impacting infants weighing ≥1,000 g, in whom mild hypothermia occurrences dropped from 76.3% to 43.9% (p&lt;0.01). This improvement in temperature management significantly decreased both mild and severe hypothermia rates post-QI. Additionally, implementing all three initiatives was more effective than when two or fewer initiatives were implemented.Conclusion: Simple and cost-effective QI interventions can increase admission temperatures and decrease hypothermia in neonates. Further research is essential to explore the long-term outcomes and develop effective hypothermia management strategies in neonatal care.

Analyzing cutting force and vibration amplitude in high-speed milling of SKD11 steel with thermal assistance

In the realm of machining, the optimization of cutting conditions stands as a paramount pursuit for enhancing both efficiency and precision. This study embarks on a pioneering investigation delving into the intricate interplay among workpiece temperature, Thermal-Assisted High-Speed Machining (TA-HSM), cutting force dynamics, and vibration amplitudes during the milling process of SKD11 steel. Beyond a mere exploration, this research endeavors to unveil not only the impact of temperature and velocity on machining dynamics but also to delineate regions characterized by elevated temperature and velocity that exhibit the potential to mitigate cutting forces and vibrations, thereby refining machining methodologies. Experimental inquiries encompassing diverse temperature regimes, coupled with variations in cutting speeds, offer valuable insights into the nexus among temperature, cutting force and vibration amplitude. Of particular significance are the high-speed milling trials conducted under the most elevated admissible support temperature, which furnish elucidation on the ramifications of high speeds on cutting forces and vibrations. This inquiry constitutes a substantive contribution to the field by elucidating the correlation between cutting force and vibration amplitude under the thermal influence and high-speed milling within thermally demanding environments. Moreover, this study extends practical utility by proffering actionable insights into the optimal temperature range and cutting speeds requisite for effecting desired enhancements in machining productivity. By discerning and delineating these optimal parameters, this research endeavors to furnish tangible guidelines for practitioners seeking to optimize their machining processes, thus fostering advancements in both efficiency and precision within the machining domain.

Association of Admission Temperature and Outcome among Neonates with Sepsis in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Background: Neonatal sepsis is a leading cause of mortality in the neonatal period, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Temperature at admission may provide valuable prognostic information for managing critically ill neonates. Objective: This study aimed to determine the association between admission temperature and outcomes in neonates with sepsis, including mortality rates, length of hospital stay, and the requirement for intensive interventions. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2022 to February 2023 in the Department of Paediatrics, Combined Military Hospital, Kharian. A total of 170 neonates diagnosed with sepsis were enrolled using non-probability, consecutive sampling. Informed, written consent was obtained from parents or guardians. Temperature was recorded at admission using a mercury thermometer in the axilla. Hypothermia was defined as a body temperature &lt;36.5°C, hyperthermia as &gt;37.5°C, and normothermia as 36.5-37.5°C. Blood and urine samples were collected for culture. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25. Quantitative variables were expressed as mean ± standard deviation or median with interquartile range, and qualitative variables as frequencies and percentages. Comparisons were made using Chi-square, Fisher’s exact test, ANOVA, and independent samples t-test, with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05. Results: Of the 170 neonates, 94 (55.3%) were male and 76 (44.7%) were female. Hypothermia was present in 50 (29.4%) neonates, normothermia in 35 (20.6%), and hyperthermia in 85 (50.0%). Blood culture positivity was highest in hyperthermic neonates (61.2%), followed by hypothermic (36.0%) and normothermic (17.1%) neonates (p &lt; 0.001). The mean length of hospital stay was 13.1 ± 4.1 days for hyperthermic neonates, 9.1 ± 2.3 days for hypothermic, and 6.3 ± 2.9 days for normothermic neonates (p &lt; 0.001). Mortality rates were 31.8% for hyperthermic neonates, 14.0% for hypothermic, and 5.7% for normothermic (p = 0.002). Conclusion: Admission temperature in neonates with sepsis is significantly associated with clinical outcomes. Hyperthermic neonates have higher mortality rates, increased blood culture positivity, and longer hospital stays compared to normothermic and hypothermic neonates. Measuring body temperature at admission can aid in risk stratification and management decisions.

Improvement in rates of optimal cord management without an increase in admission hypothermia-results of two quality improvement projects

BackgroundImproving the rates of Optimal cord management (OCM), and maintaining admission normothermia remains a challenge. ObjectiveTo improve OCM rates and admission normothermia in a tertiary perinatal centre in the UK. MethodsTwo Quality Improvement (QI) projects were launched in 2021 to increase OCM rates to 70% and admission normothermia rates to 80% by December 2023. Our QI project involved multidisciplinary team engagement, development of guidelines, and education. ResultsFollowing the QI interventions, our rates of OCM improved from 15% to 62% and admission normothermia from 50% to 87%. The most common reason for not performing OCM was the perceived need for resuscitation (72%). There are no increased odds of preterm infants receiving OCM and admission hypothermia (OR 0.23), and admission temperature above 37.5 C (OR 0.47). ConclusionsThrough our QI initiatives we have significantly improved rates of OCM and admission normothermia rates in preterm infants.

Hypothermia amongst neonatal admissions in Kenya: a retrospective cohort study assessing prevalence, trends, associated factors, and its relationship with all-cause neonatal mortality.

Reports on hypothermia from high-burden countries like Kenya amongst sick newborns often include few centers or relatively small sample sizes. This study endeavored to describe: (i) the burden of hypothermia on admission across 21 newborn units in Kenya, (ii) any trend in prevalence of hypothermia over time, (iii) factors associated with hypothermia at admission, and (iv) hypothermia's association with inpatient neonatal mortality. A retrospective cohort study was conducted from January 2020 to March 2023, focusing on small and sick newborns admitted in 21 NBUs. The primary and secondary outcome measures were the prevalence of hypothermia at admission and mortality during the index admission, respectively. An ordinal logistic regression model was used to estimate the relationship between selected factors and the outcomes cold stress (36.0°C-36.4°C) and hypothermia (<36.0°C). Factors associated with neonatal mortality, including hypothermia defined as body temperature below 36.0°C, were also explored using logistic regression. A total of 58,804 newborns from newborn units in 21 study hospitals were included in the analysis. Out of these, 47,999 (82%) had their admission temperature recorded and 8,391 (17.5%) had hypothermia. Hypothermia prevalence decreased over the study period while admission temperature documentation increased. Significant associations were found between low birthweight and very low (0-3) APGAR scores with hypothermia at admission. Odds of hypothermia reduced as ambient temperature and month of participation in the Clinical Information Network (a collaborative learning health platform for healthcare improvement) increased. Hypothermia at admission was associated with 35% (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.22, 1.50) increase in odds of neonatal inpatient death. A substantial proportion of newborns are admitted with hypothermia, indicating a breakdown in warm chain protocols after birth and intra-hospital transport that increases odds of mortality. Urgent implementation of rigorous warm chain protocols, particularly for low-birth-weight babies, is crucial to protect these vulnerable newborns from the detrimental effects of hypothermia.

Quality Improvement Project for Reducing Hypothermia on Admission in Neonates Admitted in A Tertiary Care (Level 3A) NICU in Ahmedabad, Western India

Title Quality Improvement project for reducing hypothermia on admission in newborns admitted to a neonatal care unit in a large academic tertiary (Level 3A) NICU in Ahmedabad, Western India. Background Neonatal hypothermia is a common and dangerous condition around the world. Moderate and severe hypothermia increase mortality and morbidity and predispose the fragile neonate to an increased risk of late-onset neonatal sepsis (LONS), intraventricular hemorrhage, and worsening of respiratory distress. Around 60% of neonates who are admitted to level 3 tertiary NICU in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India, had a temperature below 36.5°C on admission. Method We conducted plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycles to test and adapt solutions for decreasing hypothermia in neonates admitted to NICU. Identifying the root cause of hypothermia in terms of Manpower, Material, and Methods and enlisting them as fishbone diagrams. We adopted the strategy of using a transport incubator in the Ambulance and turning on the incubator before thirty minutes of delivery for preventing neonatal hypothermia. Results Within 8 months of starting our quality improvement project, the proportion of neonates who were hypothermic on admission decreased from 57% to 8%, Normothermic on admission increased from 23% to 53%, with an increase in mean admission temperature from 35.4°C during the pre-intervention phase to 36.6°C during post-intervention. There was also a reduction in the incidence of late-onset sepsis from 23% (pre-intervention phase) to 13% and subsequently 5% in the post-intervention period. Conclusion This study is a cost-effective approach to reducing admission hypothermia in NICU in a resource-limited setting with all outborn babies. Our study also emphasizes the importance of maintaining euthermia, not only in delivery rooms but also during transportation.

Quality improvement in the golden hour for premature infants: a scoping review

Background and objectiveEvidence-based research has shown that golden hour quality improvement (QI) measures can improve the quality of care and reduce serious complications of premature infants. Herein, we sought to review golden hour QI studies to evaluate the impact on the outcome of preterm infants.MethodsA comprehensive literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and SinoMed databases from inception to April 03, 2023. Only studies describing QI interventions in the golden hour of preterm infants were included. Outcomes were summarized and qualitative synthesis was performed.ResultsTen studies were eligible for inclusion. All studies were from single centers, of which nine were conducted in the USA and one in Israel. Seven were pre-post comparative studies and three were observational studies. Most included studies were of medium quality (80%). The most common primary outcome was admission temperatures and glucose. Five studies (n = 2308) reported improvements in the admission temperature and three studies (n = 2052) reported improvements in hypoglycemia after QI. Four studies (n = 907) showed that the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) was lower in preterm infants after QI: 106/408 (26.0%) vs. 122/424(29.5%) [OR = 0.68, 95% CI 0.48–0.97, p = 0.04].ConclusionsOur study showed that the golden hour QI bundle can improve the short-term and long-term outcomes for extremely preterm infants. There was considerable heterogeneity and deficiencies in the included studies, and the variation in impact on outcomes suggests the need to use standardized and validated measures. Future studies are needed to develop locally appropriate, high-quality, and replicable QI projects.

Effects of modified external ventricular drainage vs. an Ommaya reservoir in the management of hydrocephalus with intracranial infection in pediatric patients.

Hydrocephalus with intracranial infection (HII) may cause pathological changes in brain tissue structure and irreversible damage to the nervous system. However, intracranial infection is a contraindication to ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt surgery, and the prognosis is improved by early infection control and intracranial pressure reduction. This study evaluated the safety and efficacy of the Ommaya reservoir vs. modified external ventricular drainage (M-EVD) in the management of HII in pediatric patients. This retrospective controlled study included 45 pediatric patients with HII treated with an Ommaya reservoir (n = 24) or M-EVD (n = 21) between January 2018 and December 2022. Clinical outcomes, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) test results, complications, and outcomes were compared between the Ommaya reservoir and M-EVD groups. No patient died during the follow-up period. The two groups were similar regarding age, sex, admission temperature, weight, preoperative serum protein and albumin concentrations, CSF analysis (white blood cell count, glucose concentration, and protein content), and clinical symptoms (P > 0.05). Both groups had significant changes in the CSF test results postoperatively compared with preoperatively (P < 0.05). In the M-EVD group, the median days for 13 children to remove the external drainage tube and receive VP shunt was 19 days. The longest drainage tube retention time was 61 days, and there was no intracranial infection or serious complication related to the drainage tube. After the placement of the Ommaya, the median time required for CSF to return to normal was 21 days, and a total of 15 patients underwent VP shunt surgery. The Ommaya reservoir and M-EVD are safe and effective for pediatric patients with HII. Both methods reduce the intracranial pressure and alleviate the symptoms of hydrocephalus, although there are differences between the two methods.

Rectal and axillary admission temperature in preterm infants less than 32 weeks' gestation, a prospective study.

The purpose of this research was to evaluate the differences between rectal and axillary temperature measurements in preterm infants who were born less than 32 weeks' gestation using digital thermometers upon their admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Prospective, observational, single centre study. Rectal and axillary temperatures measurements were performed using a digital thermometer. The study examined various maternal and neonatal factors to describe the study group, including the use of prenatal corticosteroids, the occurrence of maternal diabetes and hypertension, a history of maternal prolonged rupture of membranes (PROM), maternal chorioamnionitis, the mode of delivery, along with the neonate's gender, birth weight, and gestational age. The Pearson correlation coefficient (R) was calculated to ascertain the linear relationship between the temperatures taken at the rectal and axillary sites. The concordance between the two sets of temperature data was analyzed using the Bland-Altman method. Eighty infants with a mean gestational age of 28.4 weeks (SD = 2.9) and a mean birth weight of 1,229 g (SD = 456) were included in the study. The mean axillary temperature was 36.4 °C (SD = 0.7), which was lower than the mean rectal temperature of 36.6 °C (SD = 0.6) (p = 0.012). Rectal temperatures surpassed axillary measurements in 59% of instances, while the reverse was observed in 21% of cases. Rectal and axillary temperatures had a strong correlation (Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.915, p < 0.001). Bland-Altman plot showed a small mean difference of 0.1C between the two temperatures measurements but the limits of agreement were wide (+0.7 to -0.6 °C). For hypothermic infants, the mean difference between rectal and axillary temperatures was 0.27 °C, with a wide limit of agreement ranging from -0.5 °C to +1 °C. Conversely, for normothermic infants, the mean difference was smaller at 0.1 °C, with a narrower limit of agreement from -0.4 °C to +0.6 °C. While there is a good correlation between axillary and rectal temperatures, the wider limits of agreement indicate variability, particularly in hypothermic infants. For a more accurate assessment of core body temperature in hypothermic infants, clinicians should consider using rectal measurements to ensure effective thermal regulation and better clinical outcomes.

An Implementation Science Study of a Heat-Producing Wrap to Complement KMC in Rwanda.

Background: Neonatal hypothermia is a major cause of preventable morbidity and mortality, especially among the world's poorest newborns. A heat-producing wrap is necessary when kangaroo mother care (KMC) is insufficient or unavailable, yet there is little published research on such wraps. The Dream Warmer is a wrap designed to complement KMC and has been extensively studied in formal research settings but not in real-world conditions. Objectives: We used implementation science methodology to understand the safety, effectiveness, and functionality of the Dream Warmer (hereafter, "Warmer"); its effect on clinical workflows; its interaction with other aspects of care such as KMC; and the Warmer's reception by healthcare providers (HCPs) and parents. Methods: We conducted a prospective, interventional, one-arm, open-label, mixed-methods study in 6 district hospitals and 84 associated health centers in rural Rwanda. Our intervention was the provision of the Warmer and an educational curriculum on thermoregulation. We compared pre and post intervention data using medical records, audits, and surveys. Findings: The Warmer raised no safety concerns. It was used correctly in the vast majority of cases. The mean admission temperature rose from slightly hypothermic (36.41 °C) pre, to euthermic (36.53 °C) post intervention (p = 0.002). Patients achieved a temperature ≥36.5 °C in 86% of uses. In 1% of audits, patients were hyperthermic (37.6-37.9 °C). Both HCPs and parents reported a generally positive experience with the Warmer. HCPs were challenged to prepare it in advance of need. Conclusions: The Warmer functions similarly well in research and real-world conditions. Ongoing education directed toward both HCPs and parents is critical to ensuring the provision of a continuous heat chain. Engaging families in thermoregulation could ease the burden of overtaxed HCPs and improve the skill set of parents. Hypothermia is a preventable condition that must be addressed to optimize neonatal survival and outcome.

The clinical characteristics and risk factors for necrotizing soft tissue infection in children.

Necrotizing soft tissue infection (NSTI) is a serious infectious disease. However, the early clinical manifestations and indicators of NSTI in children are still unclear. The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics and risk factors of NSTI in pediatric patients. A total of 127 children with skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) were treated at our hospital and divided into two groups: the NSTI group and the non-NSTI group, based on their discharge diagnosis from January 2011 to December 2022. Then, we collected and analyzed the clinical characteristics and risk factors of all patients, including sex and age, disease inducement, admission temperature, local skin manifestations, infection site, the presence of sepsis, bacterial culture, and laboratory indicators. In our study, there was a statistical difference in the age distribution and disease inducement between NSTI and non-NSTI groups. The occurrence of local skin manifestations (blisters/bullae and ecchymosis) and the presence of sepsis significantly increased in the NSTI group compared to the non-NSTI group. Additionally, only the platelet count on laboratory tests was statistically different between the NSTI and non-NSTI groups. Finally, the logistic regression analysis suggested that local skin manifestations such as blisters/bullae, and ecchymosis, as well as the presence of sepsis, were identified as risk factors for NSTI. Children with SSTI and skin manifestations such as blisters/bullae, ecchymosis, and the presence of sepsis are at a higher risk of developing NSTI. These symptoms serve as useful indicators for early detection of NSTI.

Implementation of Thermoregulation Bundle to Improve Admission Temperature in Preterm Infants and their Outcomes

Abstract Introduction: Preterm infants’ thermoregulation in the first few minutes after birth remains a contentious issue, but studies show that focusing on the issue and developing a guideline can reduce hypothermia in these patients. By implementing the thermoregulation bundle, this study aims to reduce the incidence of hypothermia on admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) by 50% in infants born at 32 weeks’ gestation or less. Materials and Methods: Neonatology unit at a private medical college in the Chennai district was studied for 6 months from July 2021 to December 2021. The Plan-Do-Study-Act cycle from the “WHO Point-of-Care Quality Improvement Model” was used. Thermoregulation bundle was used to standardize thermoregulation management from predelivery through admission to the NICU. Results: The NICU temperature had spiked significantly to 36.38°C ± 0.67°C (P &lt; 0.001) from the previous two readings, which was statistically significant (P = 0.001). Results from Bonferroni corrections show that the temperature induced during implementation had a statistically significant increase in temperature (23°C vs. 34°C, respectively) from the delivery point to the point of baby shifting (P = 0.001) which accounted for a 67% reduction of hypothermia. Conclusion: The present study successfully achieved its objective of reducing hypothermia by more than 50%, with a rate of 67%. Premature infants can be saved from hypothermia by implementing a standard protocol in the delivery room at the time of baby transfer and admission to the NICU.

The impact of hypothermia in a tertiary hospital neonatal unit

Background. Neonatal hypothermia, defined as a body temperature &lt;36.5°C, is a known contributor to neonatal morbidity and mortality. The admission temperature is an important predictor of neonatal outcomes, and a measure of quality of care. Objectives. This study aims to determine the incidence of and factors associated with hypothermia on admission to the neonatal unit at Steve Biko Academic Hospital (SBAH), a public tertiary hospital in South Africa. Methods. A retrospective, cross-sectional study of infants admitted to the neonatal unit from September 2019 to February 2020 using data from patient records. Results. The overall incidence of hypothermia on admission was 66% (mild 25%, moderate to severe 41%), with a mean (standard deviation (SD)) admission temperature of 35.1 (4.7)°C, and 82% (mild 19%, moderate to severe 62%) in very-low-birthweight infants. Infants remained hypothermic for a mean (SD) of 4.1 (3.9) hours post admission. Birthweight ≤1 500 g (odds ratio (OR) 1.87; p=0.019), admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (OR 1.97; p&lt;0.0001), and admission from the delivery room within the first 60 minutes of life (OR 3.06; p=0.026) were independent risk factors for hypothermia. Hypothermia was associated with increased duration of respiratory support (mean 3.2 (5.6) v. 1.7 (4.5) days; p&lt;0.0001), and longer length of hospital stay (mean 17.9 (18.8) v. 10.9 (12.6) days; p&lt;0.0001). Conclusion. The incidence of hypothermia on admission to the unit is significantly high, and hypothermic infants take a significant length of time to regain normothermia. A standardised protocol for the prevention and management of hypothermia needs to be introduced in the unit.

Thermoregulation-Focused Implementation of Delayed Cord Clamping among

Delayed cord clamping (DCC) is recommended for all neonates; however, adapting such practice can be slow or unsustainable, especially among preterm neonates. During DCC neonates are exposed to a cool environment, raising concerns for neonatal hypothermia. Moderate hypothermia may induce morbidities that counteract the potential benefits of DCC. A quality improvement project on a thermoregulation-focused DCC protocol was implemented for neonates less than 34 weeks' gestational age (GA). The aim was to increase the compliance rate of DCC while maintaining normothermia. The DCC protocol was implemented on October 1, 2020 in a large Level III neonatal intensive care unit. The thermoregulation measures included increasing delivery room temperature and using heat conservation supplies (sterile polyethylene suit, warm towels, and thermal pads). Baseline characteristics, the compliance rate of DCC, and admission temperatures were compared 4 months' preimplementation and 26 months' postimplementation RESULTS: The rate of DCC increased from 20% (11/54) in preimplementation to 57% (240/425) in postimplementation (p < 0.001). The balancing measure of admission normothermia remained unchanged. In a postimplementation subgroup analysis, the DCC cohort had less tendency to experience admission moderate hypothermia (<36°C; 9.2 vs. 14.1%, p = 0.11). The DCC cohort had more favorable secondary outcomes including higher admission hematocrit, less blood transfusions, less intraventricular hemorrhage, and lower mortality. Improving the process measure of accurate documentation could help to identify implementation barriers. Performing DCC in preterm neonates was feasible and beneficial without increasing admission hypothermia. · Thermoregulation-focused DCC protocol was implemented to increase DCC while maintaining normothermia.. · DCC rate increased from 20 to 57% while admission normothermia rate remained the same.. · DCC practice on preterm neonates is safe and feasible while maintaining normothermia..

Air pollution and topography in Tehran

Tehran is one of the most polluted cities in the world with 48 days of air pollution exceeding the admissible threshold (AQI &gt; 150) for 3 months of the 15 years studied. This period coincides with the time when Tehran’s inversion reaches its maximum stability. The purpose of this study was to determine the height of air pollution in Tehran in the days when pollution exceeds the permissible limit. Continuing to study the pressure and temperature conditions of these days, we then considered the geographical and topographic conditions, and finally identified the best of these cells for potential theoretical air turbulence. The results of this study, based on the Harmonic Analysis method and based on Tehran temperature and pressure data over a 15-year period (2003–2017), show that the highest elevation of Tehran inversion does not exceed 1800 m on polluted days. Only within 6 days of those beyond the admissible threshold, temperature and pressure cells with the highest Newtonian mass are formed. The center of these cells formed with a compressive difference of 32 mg in November, 7 mg in January, 11 mg in December, and temperature difference of 1.1° in November, 4.4° in January, and 1.9° in December. Generally, we considered the formed cells by the temperature and pressure difference and the gradient between them, as well as the difference in height between the cells and their location. This information, combined with the local winds causing the differences in temperature and pressure, allows us to elucidate conditions for creating air turbulence in Tehran and mitigating the amount and degree of air pollution.