Implementing ROP screening 2: Decision-making and follow up

In this second video on the four stages of the screening process for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), Professor Clare Gilbert explains the procedures involved in completing a screening after the eye examination.

Acting on screening decisions

Once screening has been completed, it is important that the findings are clearly recorded and instructions on what needs to be done are clearly indicated for the neonatologist, nurse and parents.

• If the decision is to treat then the team must be prepared to set up the treatment within 24 to 48 hours.

• If the decision is to discharge then the final findings must be clearly documented and explained to the parents.

• If the decision is to rescreen, the challenge for the neonatal team is to ensure these babies are seen at the right time.

Questions for reflection

Consider what information needs to be given to parents and the details to be recorded for each baby after ROP screening. How is this managed in your setting? For example, what written information is given to parents before screening? In some settings, a neonatal nurse is assigned as an ROP nurse and will keep a ROP diary to list which babies should be screened on a specific day. How are eligible babies identified in your setting, and is this information compiled in a way that is easy to use? Where are the findings of each screening documented, and does this include all the necessary information?

In your experience, what is the best method to inform parents understanding of what is being done for their baby and what is expected from them in the long run?