Development and evaluation of a clinical nursing decision support system for the prevention of neonatal hypoglycaemia

Abstract

Abstract Background: Hypoglycaemia is one of the most common complications during the neonatal period.Frequent hypoglycaemia can lead to neurodevelopmental impairment, and even sudden death. Evidence suggests that health care professionals should determine whether a newborn is at high risk for hypoglycaemia immediately after birth and make the most appropriate preventive decisions. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a clinical nursing decision support system for neonatal hypoglycaemia prevention based on the prediction model for neonatal hypoglycaemia risk that was developed in a previous study，and to evaluate its effects. Methods: Nursing process as the theoretical framework, based on evidence-based nursing, standardized nursing language, and clinical decision support technology, the neonatal hypoglycaemia prevention nursing decision support system was developed.The system was used in the neonatology department of a Grade III Class A general hospital from September 1 to 30, 2023.The application effect of the system was evaluated and compared through the incidence of neonatal hypoglycaemia, hypoglycaemia-related adverse outcomes in neonates,and the experience of nurses after the use of the system. Results: The incidence of neonatal hypoglycaemia decreased after the system was implemented, and the difference was statistically significant (X2=4.522, P=0.033). None of the neonates experienced adverse outcomes during hospitalization. The rate of hypoglycaemia risk assessment in neonates after system implementation was 92.16%. The total Clinical Nursing Information System Effectiveness Evaluation Scale score was 104.36 ± 1.96. Conclusion: The neonatal hypoglycaemia prevention nursing decision support system realizes neonatal hypoglycaemia risk assessment, intelligent decision-making, and effect evaluation, effectively reduces the incidence of neonatal hypoglycaemia, and improves the standardization of neonatal hypoglycaemia management.