Implementation of a Standardized Premedication Bundle to Improve Procedure Success for Nonemergent Neonatal Intubations

Introduction: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends premedication for all nonemergent neonatal intubations, yet there remains significant variation in this practice nationally. We aimed to standardize our unit’s premedication practices for improved intubation success and reduced adverse events. Methods: The study workgroup developed educational material and protocol content. Process measures included premedication use, education, and audit form completion. Primary (success on first intubation attempt and adverse event rates) and secondary (trainee success) study outcomes are displayed using statistical process control charts and pre-post cohort comparisons. Results: Forty-seven percent (97/206) of nurses completed educational intervention before protocol release, with an additional 20% (42/206) following a staff reminder. Two hundred sixteen (216) patients were intubated per protocol with 81% (174/216) audit completion. Compared with baseline (n = 158), intubation attempts decreased from 2 (IQR, 1–2) to 1 (IQR, 1–2) (P = 0.03), and success on the first attempt increased from 40% (63/158) to 57% (124/216) (P < 0.01), with a notable improvement in trainee success from less than 1% (1/40) to 43% (31/72) (P < 0.01). The rate of severe and rare adverse events remained stable; however, there was a rise in nonsevere events from 30% (48/158) to 45% (98/216). The tachycardia rate increased with atropine use. There was no change in chest wall rigidity, number of infants unable to extubate following surfactant, or decompensation awaiting medications. Conclusions: Standardizing procedural care delivery reduced intubation attempts and increased the attempt success rate. However, this was accompanied by an increase in the rate of nonsevere adverse events.