Evaluation and development of potentially better practices to reduce bronchopulmonary dysplasia in very low birth weight infants

OBJECTIVE. The objective of this study was to describe development and implementation of potentially better practices to reduce bronchopulmonary dysplasia in very low birth weight infants (birth weight: 501 - 1500 g). METHODS. Results of Breathsavers Group meetings, conference calls and critically appraised topic summaries were used to construct potentially better practices. Implementation plans and experiences were reported by participants and collated. RESULTS. The Breathsavers Group developed 13 potentially better practices, based on published evidence and expert opinion. Participants determined which potentially better practices to implement and implementation methods. Participating NICUs implemented an average of 5 potentially better practices (range: 3 - 9). The Breathsavers Group also developed a resource kit, identified common obstacles to implementation, and initiated research to define bronchopulmonary dysplasia better. CONCLUSIONS. Multiinstitutional collaboration facilitated development and implementation of potentially better practices to reduce bronchopulmonary dysplasia.