Nursing Care in patient with Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE): Case Study

Abstract

Introduction: Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a type of brain dysfunction in the newborn, resulting in hypoxemia, hypercapnia and metabolic acidosis which can lead to neuronal cell death and brain damage. Continuous asphyxia can also lead to multiple organ dysfunctions. Birth asphyxia is a serious clinical problem worldwide and contributes greatly to neonatal mortality and morbidity. Therapeutic-Hypothermia is a specific and effective treatment for HIE. Nurses, therefore, should have sufficient knowledge and skills of therapeutic hypothermia for taking caring   of patients effectively.

Methods: The study recruited a female newborn patient diagnosed with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) and referred to therapeutic hypothermia at Saraburi Hospital. at The  study incorporated the nursing process and  holistic care  including assessment, planning, diagnosis, implementation, and evaluation and follow-ups. The study was conducted for seven months from December 2021 to June 2022.

Results: The result revealed that the female newborn patient who was diagnosed with severe birth asphyxia and referred to therapeutic hypothermia at Saraburi Hospital. The patient still underwent intubation and resuscitation from the primary hospital. The nursing process, holistic care, and effective communication were implemented by nurses.  The patient could be extubated and recovered, having no complications. Then, the patient was referred back to continuous treatment at the primary hospital. The caregiver accepted and understood the instructions given.  A  phone follow - up  was  performed within  two weeks  after the reference,  and the patient was found to recover  but  remain  admitted in NICU.

Conclusion: The nursing process and holistic care with effective communication in the referral system could lead to patients’ safety and recovery. And decreasing morbidity and mortality.