Linda F. Samson

Perspectives on neonatal nursing: 1985-2005.

Neonatal nursing practice has been influenced by a number of external forces over the past 20 years. This article explores some of the influences that have altered practice in the 20-year history of the Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal Nursing. Attention is directed to several significant influences such as the development of the Internet and the World Wide Web and the role that information plays in care delivery. Changing practice roles with the continuing evolution of the neonatal nurse practitioner role and the emerging plans for the doctorate of nursing practice are described. The history of professional associations for neonatal nurses and the impact of evidence-based practice are considered. Finally, the legal environment surrounding practice is explored.

Predicting the marginal cost of direct nursing care for newborns

The author describes a study on the cost of nursing care for newborns using cost functions. A sample of 70 institutions in New Jersey were studied during a 2-year period. The models explained 95% of the variation of nursing costs in the study population. This information can be used by nurse executives to more appropriately make decisions about optimal unit size and the profitability of certain services.

Educational challenges in neonatal nursing practice and advanced practice

Education for advanced practice has been debated since the development of the position on the doctor of nursing practice for advanced clinical practice. This article explores the issues that have emerged with an emphasis on the advanced practice roles in neonatal nursing. Licensure, certification, and scope of practice are addressed.

Infants of diabetic mothers: current perspectives.

A thorough understanding of the metabolic alterations seen in pregnancies complicated by diabetes can help to provide the framework for comprehensive care of the mother and her infant. Nursing research may help to clarify the scope of problems encountered as well as delineating strategies to reduce mortality and morbidity. The problems encountered in infants of diabetic mothers can be better managed with a thorough understanding of the physiologic changes encountered. Assessment strategies can then be developed specific to the identified needs. Finally, interventions can be selected that promote healthy infant and family function and reduce long-term complications. Although perinatal outcomes have improved in diabetic pregnancies, there are still opportunities to reduce major complications and to improve quality of life.