Improving the neonatal team handoff process in a level IV NICU: reducing interruptions and handoff duration.

Background: Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) patients are at increased risk for handoff communication failures due to complexity and prolonged length of stay. We report a quality initiative aimed at reducing avoidable interruptions during neonatal handoffs while monitoring handoff duration and provider satisfaction.

Methods: Observational time series between August 2015 and March 2018 in an academic level IV NICU.

Introduction of triggers for palliative care consultation improves utilization and satisfaction within a level four NICU.

Objective: We sought to explore the beliefs regarding palliative care team utilization, as well as increase consultation and awareness of the palliative care team's role in the NICU.

Study Design: The study design in this Level 4 NICU included observational time series with multiple planned sequential interventions. Medical chart review was conducted to determine eligibility, and statistical process control charts were used to show performance over time.