Title : Bridging the gap: Addressing equipment limitations in pediatric surgery
Abstract:
Purpose: Pediatric surgery presents unique challenges due to the physiological differences between children and adults, compounded by the fact that most medical guidelines, devices, and materials are designed for the adult population. A prime example of this disparity is the contraindication of adhesive electrocautery grounding pads in patients with Epidermolysis bullosa (EB), a rare genetic condition characterized by fragile skin. In these cases, the recommended alternative for safe electrosurgical grounding is the under-body universal mat. However, the mat is not approved for patients under 50lbs, leaving pediatric clinicians without viable options for infants and smaller children.
Relevance: The absence of equipment designed specifically for pediatric patients with rare conditions such as EB presents a critical gap in care. This equipment limitation forces surgical teams to face dilemmas that could potentially harm patients or compromise the effectiveness of the surgery. Nurse leaders in pediatric surgery must advocate for solutions that address these gaps and ensure safer, more inclusive surgical practices.
Objective: This presentation aims to explore the current equipment limitations in pediatric surgery and propose actionable steps for healthcare leaders to advocate for innovation in medical device development and approval processes. The focus will be on how interdisciplinary collaboration and clinical advocacy can push for safer, pediatric-appropriate solutions.
Methods:
- Review of existing literature on equipment contraindications in pediatric populations, with emphasis on EB and electrosurgery.
- Examination of current product approvals and limitations for pediatric use, particularly for patients under 50 lbs.
- Interviews with pediatric surgical teams to understand workarounds and their associated risks.
- Exploration of strategies nurse leaders can employ to influence industry and regulatory bodies to develop and approve safer alternatives.
Results: Preliminary research highlights an alarming gap in device approval and use for pediatric populations, particularly in rare cases such as EB. Current practices often involve compromises that could negatively impact patient safety. Nurse leaders have the capacity to spearhead change by advocating for clinical trials and pushing for product innovations tailored to pediatric needs.
Conclusions: Nurse leaders must take an active role in addressing the equipment disparities faced in pediatric surgery. By advocating for tailored solutions, initiating conversations with manufacturers, and collaborating with regulatory agencies, the pediatric surgery community can help bridge the gap between adult-centric medical devices and the unique needs of pediatric patients.
