Multiprofessional health care in the face of the prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Objective: To show in the literature, available studies about multidisciplinar care in the prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) at Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Methods: This is a descriptive exploratory study, of qualitative nature and integrative literature review. It were established the following inclusion criterias: articles published from 2009 to 2019, available from SCIELO and LILACS, BDENF and BVS. Results: The results showed that the children’s profile affected by NEC are predominantly of Weight-Related Preterm Children (WRPC). The most frequente risk factors found in the literature are: prematurity, low weight, neonatal hypoxia, diet, NICU care, antibiotic therapy, blood transfusion, perinatal factors and others. It was evidenced in the research that the preventive measures related to NEC are: exclusive breastfeeding, quality care, prevention of hypoxia and others. It is noteworthy that the nursing professional acts more directly in the care of Newborn (NB) in NICU. Final considerations: Several actions carried out by the multidisciplinary team can considerably reduce the risks related to NEC, which may affect a lower rate of disease development.