Care of low-birthweight and sick newborn infants in community hospitals. Effect of an education program.

We studied the effect of an education program on newborn care practices, documented by chart review, in nine community hospitals in central Pennsylvania. Following a visit to each hospital, specific recommendations were made and courses were offered at the regional center. A follow-up review of newborn charts showed significant improvement in newborn care. This kind of educational program, particularly if directed at identified problems in individual hospitals, appears to be effective. In addition, chart reviews can provide the information necessary for assessing both care practices and the effect of an educational program.