Improving anthropometric measurements in hospitalized children: A quality‐improvement project

• DOI: 10.1002/ncp.11112
• Publication Date: 2023-12-28T16:18:50Z
• Authors: Sabrina Persaud; Bridget M. Hron; Coral Rudie; Patricia Mantell; Prerna S. Kahlon; Katelyn Ariagno; Al Ozonoff; Shrunjal Trivedi; Carlos Yugar; Nilesh M. Mehta; Michelle Raymond; Christopher P. Du...; Susanna Y. Huh
• Keywords: Champion

Abstract Background The objective of this quality‐improvement project was to increase documentation rates anthropometrics (measured weight, length/height, and body mass index [BMI], which are critical identify patients at malnutrition (undernutrition) risk) from <50% 80% within 24 hours hospital admission for pediatric patients. Methods Multidisciplinary champion teams on surgical, cardiac, intensive care (ICU) pilot units were established iteratively test interventions addressing barriers May 2016 June 2018. Percentage with documented <24 h assessed monthly by statistical process control methodology. risk compared χ 2 4 months before after intervention. Results Anthropometric significantly increased ( P < 0.001 all): BMI, 11% 89% (surgical), 33% 57% (cardiac), 16% 51% (ICU); measured 24% 88% 69% 83% 67% 12% 38% 26% 63% (ICU). Improvement hospital‐wide observed (BMI, 42% 70%, 0.001) formal dissemination tactics. For units, moderate/severe tripled (1.2% [24 2081] 3.4% [81 2374], 0.001). Conclusion Documentation substantially improved establishing multidisciplinary teams. Goal rate (80%) achieved 26 all in the surgical unit weight cardiac unit. Improved led significant identification risk.