Mentor/s
Dr. Michelle Cole
Participation Type
Poster
Abstract
Cell phone use in the NICU setting is a valuable tool and resource in the care of neonates. Despite the technology that is beneficial to the clinical setting, cell phones carry risks including the presence of pathogens on their surfaces. Studies demonstrate the presence of bacteria on cell phones, many of which are multi-drug resistant, presenting potentially harmful risks to the neonate. Currently, no policy exists for routine disinfection of cell phones in the clinical setting. Developing and implementing a disinfection practice recommendation focused on caregivers and families can reduce the unintended risks associated with the use of cell phones in the NICU setting. Informational posters were developed focusing on the two main populations, families and care providers, illustrating the concerns related to contaminated cell phone use in the NICU with helpful strategies to reduce the potential harmful outcomes. A new culture of consciousness regarding technology use and its possible impact on neonates was considered. The disinfection practice will promote a safe environment for neonates to grow and develop as well as reduce pathogen exposure. Protecting neonates from potential harm is a primary role of the NICU RN. Educating families and nurses on ways to safeguard the health and wellbeing of neonates and implementing a disinfection practice can decrease the risk of nosocomial infections. It can also prevent unnecessary extended lengths of stay while continuing to utilize the valuable technology offered by cell phone devices.
Keywords: NICU, neonate, nurse, cell phone, disinfection, nosocomial infection, teaching tool
College and Major available
Nursing BSN
Location
Digital Commons
Start Day/Time
4-24-2020 2:00 PM
End Day/Time
4-24-2020 4:00 PM
Prize Categories
Most Meaningful
The Benefits of Cell Phone Disinfection in the NICU
Digital Commons
Cell phone use in the NICU setting is a valuable tool and resource in the care of neonates. Despite the technology that is beneficial to the clinical setting, cell phones carry risks including the presence of pathogens on their surfaces. Studies demonstrate the presence of bacteria on cell phones, many of which are multi-drug resistant, presenting potentially harmful risks to the neonate. Currently, no policy exists for routine disinfection of cell phones in the clinical setting. Developing and implementing a disinfection practice recommendation focused on caregivers and families can reduce the unintended risks associated with the use of cell phones in the NICU setting. Informational posters were developed focusing on the two main populations, families and care providers, illustrating the concerns related to contaminated cell phone use in the NICU with helpful strategies to reduce the potential harmful outcomes. A new culture of consciousness regarding technology use and its possible impact on neonates was considered. The disinfection practice will promote a safe environment for neonates to grow and develop as well as reduce pathogen exposure. Protecting neonates from potential harm is a primary role of the NICU RN. Educating families and nurses on ways to safeguard the health and wellbeing of neonates and implementing a disinfection practice can decrease the risk of nosocomial infections. It can also prevent unnecessary extended lengths of stay while continuing to utilize the valuable technology offered by cell phone devices.
Keywords: NICU, neonate, nurse, cell phone, disinfection, nosocomial infection, teaching tool
Students' Information
Olivia Lyon, Nursing major, Honors student, Class of 2020.
Winner, Dean's Prize: Davis and Henley College of Nursing.