Future Direction of Quality Improvement of Neonatal Intensive Care Units: A Short Narrative Review

Background: Quality improvement (QI) methods have the potential to improve outcomes and care processes for hospitalized patients. In the neonatal ICU (NICU), unit-based QI projects have resulted in lower rates of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, hospital-acquired infection, hypothermia on admission, delivery room intubations, and increased the use of mother’s own milk at discharge. Methods: This rapid improvement in the outcomes brought care quality in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) to the surface. Quality improvement (QI) involves safe, timely, effective, efficient, equitable, and patient centered care. In this review, we discuss the neonatal mortality worldwide, described the methods of QI with examples of NICU QI topics. Each NICU can voluntarily develop a QI project, but systematic support is essential. Conclusion: The future direction of Quality Improvement (QI) in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements, data analytics, patient-centered care models, and a growing focus on health equity and safety. Here are the key emerging trends and future directions.