Evaluating Independent Double Checks in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: A Human Factors Engineering Approach.

Objectives: The goal of this human factors engineering-led improvement initiative was to examine whether the independent double check (IDC) during administration of high alert medications afforded improved patient safety when compared with a single check process.

Methods: The initiative was completed at a 24-bed pediatric intensive care unit and included all patients who were on the unit and received a medication historically requiring an IDC. The total review examined 37,968 high-risk medications administrations to 4417 pediatric intensive care unit patients over a 40-month period.

Ocular Surface Disease in a PICU: Incidence and Outcomes With a Dynamic Eye Care Protocol.

Objectives: Sedated intensive care patients have impaired ocular protective mechanisms putting them at risk for ocular surface disease with potential vision loss. Historically, routine eye care has been limited to critically ill patients receiving neuromuscular blockade. The aim of this project was to determine the occurrence rate of ocular surface disease in sedated and ventilated children, identify risk factors, and determine the progression of injury with routine eye care.