Decreasing respiratory device-related pressure injuries in the NICU using 3D printed barrier templates

Objective Use of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in very low birthweight infants to decrease the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia can also lead to pressure injuries (PI) caused by the respiratory device interface. We aimed to decrease our incidence of PIs related to the mask/prongs interface used for NIV (PI-NIV). Study design We identified correct use of barriers and appropriate interface fit as key targets for intervention. Over several PDSA cycles, we developed custom 3D printed barrier templates to allow for barriers to be cut at the bedside and created concise educational documents to assist with interface fitting and troubleshooting. Results The incidence of all PI-NIV decreased from 5.64 to 2.27 per 1000 NIV patient-days and the incidence of reportable (stage 3–4 and unstageable) PI-NIV decreased from 1.13 to 0 per 1000 NIV patient-days during the study period. Conclusions With appropriate barrier usage and targeted education, the risk of PI-NIV can be minimized.