Improving the Quality of a Newborn Screening Program at an Academic Medical Center

Poster Presentation Purpose for the Program To describe a program to improve compliance rates for completion of mandatory newborn screening at a large academic medical center. Proposed Change A comprehensive newborn screening program, including elements for metabolic, hearing, and critical congenital heart disease, was implemented. Program improvement efforts focused on a transition from a decentralized process to a centralized process focused on a designated team of testers under the leadership of a newborn screening coordinator (NSC). Implementation, Outcomes, and Evaluation Implementation of this program coincided with commencement of a new computerized data entry system at the state level. All members of the screening team were trained on the various screening processes they were to perform. Consistent operating procedures were developed to ensure standardization of the screening process for all infants. Nursing staff and pediatricians were educated on the changes to the screening process. Compliance reports from the state are monitored by the NSC and the patient service manager. The NSC reports to the Well Newborn Nursery Committee, the Perinatal Committee, and the Obstetrics Operations Committee as to the hurdles, progress, and outcomes from the screening program. The program is ongoing with regular assessment and evaluation of processes and outcomes, which drives quality improvement. Implications for Nursing Practice Nurses must understand their state mandated roles in the newborn screening process. A NSC remains current regarding the laws that govern the process and educates nurses as changes occur. A designated team of testers can provide standardized and knowledgeable education to parents. The described newborn screening program improves compliance with state newborn screening requirements.