Nursing Care in the Prevention of Acute Bilirubin Toxicity in Neonatal Intensive Care Units

Abstract

Background: Nursing care of neonates with acute bilirubin toxicity requires comprehensive approach. Hyperbilirubinemia is one of the most common conditions that need medical attention in neonates. Aim: The aim of the present study was to assess nursing care role in the prevention of acute bilirubin toxicity among neonates in neonatal intensive care units. Research design: A descriptive design. Settings: The study was conducted at neonatal intensive care units in the Pediatric Hospital and the Obstetricians & Gynecologists Hospital, affiliated to Ain-Shams University and Dar El Shefa hospital, affiliated to Ministry of Health in Egypt. Subjects: A purposive sample composed of 45 nurses and infant neonates suffered from hyperbilirubinemia in the previously mentioned settings. Tools: (1): A structured interviewing questionnaire sheet to assess characteristics of studied nurses and knowledge regarding acute bilirubin toxicity. Also, characteristics of neonates with hyperbilirubinemia. (2): Observation checklists to assess nurses' practice in the prevention of acute bilirubin toxicity. Results: Two thirds of the studied nurses had average 1evel of knowledge regarding acute bilirubin toxicity in neonates and only one third of them had competent level of performance regarding acute bilirubin toxicity in neonates. Conclusion: The study revealed that, there was positive correlation and statistically significant between nurses' total score of knowledge regarding acute bilirubin toxicity and total score of practice regarding acute bilirubin toxicity in neonates. In addition, the nursing care role of the studied nurses can improve the prevention of acute bilirubin toxicity in neonates. Recommendations: Emphasis on educational program for neonatal nurses to improve their knowledge and practice. Enhancement and refreshment of the neonatal nurses' knowledge by using booklets. Further studies should be carried out among neonatal nurses to assess their role in the prevention of the acute bilirubin toxicity.