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Biomedical subjects

Laura A Stokowski

Publications and source records attributed to Laura A Stokowski.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2006

Fundamentals of phototherapy for neonatal jaundice.

Phototherapy is the use of visible light for the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn. This relatively common therapy lowers the serum bilirubin level by transforming bilirubin into water-soluble isomers that can be eliminated without conjugation in the liver. The dose of phototherapy largely determines how quickly it works; the dose, in turn, is determined by the wavelength of the light, the intensity of the light (irradiance), the distance between the light and the infant, and the body surface area exposed to the light. Commercially available phototherapy systems include those that deliver light via fluorescent bulbs, halogen quartz lamps, light-emitting diodes, and fiberoptic mattresses. Proper nursing care enhances the effectiveness of phototherapy and minimizes complications. Caregiver responsibilities include ensuring effective irradiance delivery, maximizing skin exposure, providing eye protection and eye care, carefully monitoring thermoregulation, maintaining adequate hydration, promoting elimination, and supporting parent-infant interaction.

Bilirubin↗
PubMed2005

Ensuring safety for infants undergoing magnetic resonance imaging.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful and versatile diagnostic tool. Applications of MR technology are rapidly expanding for all patient populations, including infants receiving newborn intensive care. Millions of MR examinations have been conducted without incident or harm, yet rare accidents in the MR environment continue to occur. The infant is vulnerable to many of the potential hazards of MRI, including projectile accidents, radiofrequency electromagnetic field effects, noise hazards, physiologic instability, and adverse effects of transport, positioning, handling, and sedation. The MRI-compatible incubator is a promising means for safe imaging of smaller and less stable infants than previously possible. Proper education of staff and meticulous attention to detail in preparing the infants for MR examinations are the keys to safety during neonatal MRI.

Electromagnetic Fields↗
PubMed2005

A primer on Apnea of prematurity.

Apnea, the cessation of respiratory airflow, can begin in many preterm infants in the first week of life and can last until the day of discharge or beyond. This article provides an overview of the complex anatomic, physiological, and developmental mechanisms related to immaturity of both the central nervous system and musculature of the pulmonary system, that contribute to apnea of prematurity. Apnea of prematurity is a diagnosis of exclusion; an array of other conditions and stimuli can also cause apnea, including infections, pulmonary disease, and intracranial pathology. The standard clinical management of apnea, including cutaneous stimulation, methylxanthine therapy, and continuous positive airway pressure or ventilatory support, are discussed as well as newer investigational therapies, such as olfactory stimulation. Emerging evidence on the long-term neurodevelopmental impact of apnea is reviewed. Nursing measures to prevent and manage apnea are reviewed with an emphasis on parent education and preparation for discharge. Apnea resolves in most preterm infants as they approach term corrected gestational age; however, if it does not, options include continued hospitalization or, for infants with stable apnea, discharge with a home apnea monitor.

Apnea↗
PubMed2004

Hypospadias in the neonate.

Hypospadias is a common developmental disorder of the urogenital tract, occurring in approximately 1 in 125 live male births. Defined as an atypical urethral opening anywhere along the shaft of the penis, scrotum, or perineum, hypospadias is often associated with a deficient prepuce and chordee. Hypospadias usually occurs as an isolated defect, but can be part of a recognized syndrome or associated with other genital anomalies. The etiology of nonsyndromic hypospadias is unknown, and is believed to be multifactorial. Recent studies have implicated factors such as familial inheritance, low birth weight, assisted reproductive technology, advanced maternal age, paternal subfertility, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals in the pathogenesis of hypospadias. Infants with hypospadias should not undergo circumcision. Currently, most infants with hypospadias undergo surgical reconstruction between 4 and 8 months of age. Parents of a newborn with hypospadias may be anxious and have many questions about their infant's condition. They should be given the opportunity to speak to a pediatric urologist as early as possible. This article provides a guide to the embryologic origins of hypospadias and a photographic atlas to aid bedside clinicians in identifying the spectrum of hypospadias in the newborn.

Female↗