Goal-oriented temperature management in severely traumatized children in the emergency department: an evidence-based practice project

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction and objectives: Hypothermia commonly occurs in trauma patients. Evidence-based practices for hypothermia prevention are not strictly followed by all medical staff in the emergency department. This study aimed to assess compliance with evidence-based practices regarding goal-oriented temperature management for severely traumatized children in a Chinese hospital. Methods: This project used the JBI Evidence Implementation Framework to translate evidence into practice. The Integrated-Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (i-PARIHS) framework was used to identify barriers to compliance with best practices. A goal-oriented temperature management strategy for trauma patients was developed based on the identified barriers, along with a simulation training module, and the supply of warming materials. Field observation, review of medical records, and interviews with medical staff and patients were used to assess baseline and follow-up audit compliance with best practices. Results: Twelve criteria were audited in the baseline and follow-up audits, with 11 and 37 trauma patients, respectively. In the follow-up audit, compliance with all criteria increased, with a reduction in shivering and cold discomfort scores. Except for two patients who died, hypothermia did not occur in any of the patients. Conclusions: The JBI Evidence Implementation Framework was used to successfully improve compliance with best practices. Future audits should be conducted to sustain the evidence-based behavior of all medical staff. Spanish abstract: http://links.lww.com/IJEBH/A234