Implementation of an inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) setup and weaning protocol in a pediatric ICU reduces the cost associated with its use without a statistically significant difference in mortality, according to a study published in Respiratory Care.
Researchers report that there was a statistically significant decrease in the median per subject cost of iNO between the pre- and post-protocol groups, but no statistically significant difference in the median duration of iNO use, median PICU or hospital stay, median duration of mechanical ventilation, or percent mortality between the 2 groups.
“In an era of increased awareness regarding healthcare spending, implementation of evidence-based protocols can provide a way to ensure the judicious utilization of medical resources,” the authors concluded.
Implementation of iNO Protocol Decreases Direct Costs
