Pediatric Nursing Commons^™

Therapeutic Plasma Exchange (Tpe) Performed In Tandem With Crrt And/Or Ecmo: Experience Of One Pediatric Center, Lejla Music Aplenc, Cindy George, Kimberly Marriott

Posters

SUMMARY

The most common indications for starting tandem procedures were ASFA Category III indications, followed by un-categorized indications.

Similar to other reports in literature, hypocalcemia and hypotension were the most common complications. Transfusion reactions were rare, despite the use of large volumes of plasma.

Tandem procedures in critically ill pediatric patients require close monitoring and excellent communication between staff members.

An Expanded Role For Nurses In Laboratory Utilization, Marilyn S. Hamilton, Rangaraj Selvarangan, Michele Fix, Lynn E. Shriver

Posters

Introduction: The majority of laboratory testing errors occur in the pre-analytical stage, including specimen collection. Children provide special challenges including small blood volumes, small veins, and an inability to cooperate. We describe collaboration between laboratorians and nursing staff to improve specimen collection and the reliability of test results.

Methods: We identified three areas for improvement: 1) Volume of blood for culture, 2) Urine collection, and 3) Appropriate blood collection through a line. Base line data was established. Guidelines for specimen collection were updated. Nurse members of the Laboratory Utilization Committee developed educational tools.

Results: Nursing education was effective at improving …