Neonatal Infection Surveillance Database
The NeonIN project is looking at bloodstream and other serious infections in newborn babies. Many UK hospitals are taking part. They are collecting information in a secure online database about babies who get these infections. This helps doctors learn more about how often these infections happen, what types of germs cause them, and how to best treat them. The goal is to improve care for newborn babies who get sick. They are interested in babies from birth up to 12 months old, both boys and girls, who get a serious infection while in a participating hospital unit.
At a glance
What is this study about?
The Neonatal Infection Surveillance Database, or NeonIN, is a really important project that helps doctors keep track of serious infections in newborn babies. Think of it like a community watch, but for tiny patients in hospitals across the UK. Many neonatal units (special baby care units) are working together to collect information.
They are interested in infections where germs are found in sterile places like the baby's blood, the fluid around their brain and spinal cord, or their urine. For these infections, doctors would give the baby antibiotics for at least five days. The information covers details about the baby, the type of germ causing the infection, and what medicines work against it. This data is put into a secure online system.
By gathering all this information in one place, doctors can quickly see patterns, understand how common these infections are, and learn which treatments are most effective. This 'real-time' information helps improve the way babies with serious infections are cared for, both now and in the future. It helps make sure doctors have the best and most up-to-date knowledge to protect our smallest patients.
Key takeaways
- NeonIN is a UK-wide effort to monitor newborn infections.
- It collects data on babies with serious confirmed infections in special care units.
- The goal is to improve understanding and treatment of newborn infections.
- No new treatments or tests are given as part of this project.
- Your baby's privacy is protected.
- You can ask questions and choose not to participate.
Who may be eligible?
This project is for newborn babies and infants up to 12 months old who are being cared for in one of the special baby care units participating in the NeonIN network across the UK.
To be included, a baby must have had a serious infection where germs were found in a sample (like blood, or fluid from around their brain or spine). This means a doctor diagnosed a definite infection based on tests, and the baby was given antibiotics for at least five days to treat it.
There are no reasons that would stop a baby from being included if they meet the criteria above. Both baby boys and girls of all ages (from 1 minute old up to 12 months old) are included in this important monitoring project.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is your baby already in a participating hospital's special baby care unit?
- Has your baby been diagnosed with a serious infection by doctors?
- Were germs found in a sample (like blood or fluid from around the brain)?
- Did your baby receive antibiotics for at least five days for the infection?
- Is your baby younger than 12 months old?
What does participation involve?
If a baby meets the criteria, the hospital staff will securely record information about their infection into the NeonIN database. This involves noting details about the baby, the kind of infection they have, and the treatment they received. This happens as part of their routine care, so it won't involve any extra appointments, tests, or medication for your baby. The information collected comes directly from their medical records within the hospital. There is no specific 'duration' of participation for individual babies; their infection episode data is added as it occurs.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- St George's University of LondonVerified postcodeLondon, United Kingdom· Recruiting
Common questions
What is the main purpose of NeonIN?
NeonIN helps doctors track serious infections in newborn babies across UK hospitals to learn more about them and improve treatment.
Will my baby get extra tests or medicines if they are part of this?
No, your baby will not get any extra tests or treatments. The project gathers information from your baby's existing medical records.
Who can be included in this project?
Babies up to 12 months old, both boys and girls, who have a confirmed infection and are receiving care in a participating special baby unit.
Is my baby's information kept private?
Yes, all information collected is kept secure and private. Your baby's identity will not be shared publicly.
Can I choose not to have my baby's information included?
Yes, you have the right to discuss this with your medical team and request that your baby’s data is not included.
How to find out more
Sana Ibrahim, BSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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