The Choreography Involved in a NICU Expansion to Ensure Emergency Preparedness

• 2019

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• Christine Kilian; Lisa Steurer; Elizabeth Kruvand
PMID: 31335846DOI: https://doi.org/10.1097/jpn.0000000000000426

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This 2-page article describes the expansion of a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in a Midwestern academic center that requiring careful planning. A Move Planning Committee was formed, meeting regularly to plan staffing, communication, supplies, and emergency procedures. A multiphase move involved vertical and horizontal transfers. Emergency preparedness was crucial, with Move Teams and color-coded acuity levels ensuring patient safety. Family Partners, a group of families whose children have undergone treatment in the hospital, played a key role in supporting families during the move. The move was successful, completed in half the expected time without adverse events. Communication improvements and emergency drills are planned for future moves.

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Tags

Focus Areas: Everyday Emergency; Natural Disasters

Audiences: Emergency Managers; Nurses; Physicians

Emergency Management Stage: Preparedness (Prevention / Protection)

Bundles: Disaster Research Literature Review

Keywords: Civil Defense; Hospital Planning; Intensive Care Units, Neonatal; Patient Care Planning; Patient Transfer; Professional-Family Relations; Infant Health; Nurse's Role; Simulation Training

Institutions: St. Louis Children's Hospital

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