Introduction of Amplitude-Integrated Electroencephalography (aEEG) Monitoring in a Level 2 NICU: Improving the Quality of Care for Neurologically At-Risk Newborns.

Amplitude-integrated electroencephalography (aEEG) is a bedside tool for continuous monitoring of brain activity with the possibility of real-time interpretation. Amplitude-integrated electroencephalography is routinely used in Canadian tertiary NICUs; however, its use in Level 2 NICUs has been limited. A bedside aEEG program was introduced in a Level 2 NICU in order to help facilitate the timely transfer of neurologically compromised infants and keep mother-infant dyads together where reassurance of appropriate neurological status could be attained. A monitoring guideline and educational program were developed. The introduction of aEEG monitoring enhanced the care provided to neurologically at-risk newborns. This experience can be used as a framework for other Level 2 NICUs who may wish to embark upon a similar initiative.

Neonatal outcomes in spontaneous versus obstetrically indicated late preterm births in a nova scotia population.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the indications for late preterm delivery in Nova Scotia and to compare the short-term outcomes by type of labour (spontaneous, induced, none). METHODS: We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study of late preterm births (34+0 to 36+6 weeks' gestation) between 1988 and 2009 using the Nova Scotia Atlee Perinatal Database. The association between labour type and neonatal outcomes was examined with logistic regression to estimate odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS: Of the 10 315 late preterm births, 6228 followed spontaneous labour, 2338 followed induction of labour, and 1689 followed Caesarean section with no labour. Babies born following induction were at higher risk of developing hyperbilirubinemia (OR 1.14; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.27) and needing total parenteral nutrition (OR 1.52; 95% CI 1.15 to 1.99) than those born spontaneously. Those born without labour were at higher risk of needing resuscitation (OR 2.43; 95% CI 1.84 to 3.21) and total parenteral nutrition (OR 2.54; 95% CI 1.93 to 3.33) and developing transient tachypnea of the newborn (OR 1.43; 95% CI 1.10 to 1.85), hypoglycemia (OR 1.97; 95% CI 1.63 to 2.39), respiratory distress syndrome (OR 2.33; 95% CI 1.89 to 2.88), necrotizing enterocolitis (OR 3.20; 95% CI 1.07 to 9.53), and apneic spells (OR 1.29; 95% CI 1.05 to 1.59). When adjusted for maternal and fetal factors, odd ratios were only slightly attenuated. CONCLUSION: Among late preterm babies, those born by Caesarean section without labour are at increased risk of many adverse outcomes, while those born following induction of labour are at increased risk of few of the outcomes studied. Maternal and fetal factors other than those for which adjustment was made may contribute to the differences in outcome by labour type.

Two cases of apparent suffocation of newborns during side-lying breastfeeding.

The side-lying position is one of several options offered to women in the postpartum period to assist with early establishment of breastfeeding. Many new mothers are exhausted and experiencing significant pain following birth. While the side-lying position for breastfeeding can allow women to get needed rest, it can increase their risk of falling asleep while in this position and potentially smothering their babies. We report two cases of apparent suffocation in newborns on the maternity ward when women unintentionally fell asleep while breastfeeding in the side-lying position. Interventions that may help to prevent such events are suggested.