Research Week Abstract Book - Northern Health

Women’s Health and Paediatrics
IMPlemenTATION OF THE ARC GuiDeline 13 FOR NEWBORNS AT THE NORTHERN
HOSPITal
Ramudu L 1 , Milonas A 1 , Keenan R1, Castillo G 2 .
Women’s Health AND PAEDIAtrics
1
Education Department, The Northern Hospital
2
Quality, Safety & Risk Unit, The Northern Hospital
Background
In 2012, the Australian Resuscitation Council (ARC) was updated to reflect evidence based practice for the resuscitation of all
newborns.
Aim
This poster will aim to depict the implementation in practice change within Northern Health specifically The Northern Hospital
(TNH) site.
Methodology
The Quality Improvement Cycle was utilised in the implementation at several stages. This continuous quality improvement
process consisted of Monitoring Activities, Assessment, Action and Evaluation.
Results
The Monitoring Activities process involved a phone survey conducted at eight maternity units to establish a working baseline
of present practice. The survey allowed benchmarking to occur within TNH as well. The Assessment phase reviewed
current neonatal resuscitation equipment and the accessibility of the equipment by specialised health teams. The Action
stage involved the implementation phase of equipment upgrade and simplification in its existing locations. Purchase of
recommended equipment occurred in conjunction with a standardised approach to all resuscitation equipment stock across
Northern Health. Evaluation stage consisted of a repeat of the phone survey to ensure benchmarked consistent practice.
Regular audits of neonatal resuscitation equipment have been undertaken since the Action phase.
Conclusion
Northern Health, TNH, has successfully implemented the ARC Guideline 13 for newly born infants to ensure and promote
best practice. Whilst the physical nature of the existing clinical environments remain a challenge for all health teams, the
consistent approach to practice, equipment access and its use has been improved to meet national standards.
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