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Learning Objective 1: ...identify at least 2 results of the research study, "Effect of Evaporation on Infant Diaper Weights at Selected Intervals Post-Wetting."
Learning Objective 2: ...discuss how the research findings are used as a basis for implementing evidence-based nursing policy development.
Methods: Experimental, laboratory model wherein designated amounts of saline was added to dry disposable diapers. Diapers were weighed immediately post-wetting and then at hourly intervals for seven hours. Four sizes of diapers were utilized: preemie, size 1, 3 and 5. For each size diaper, two volumes of saline were added simulating the upper and lower limits of normal output.
Results: Analysis of data was implemented using repeated measures ANOVA. Changes over time were significantly different for all time points and for volume. The interaction between time and volume was also significant indicating that the change over time was different for the large and small volumes. However, the results need to be interpreted with care. Actual changes in diaper weight were very small and consistent (small standard deviations) between the diapers in each group. The largest change was only a 3% change over 7 hours (3 grams out of 100 ml) which was less than a 5 % change needed for clinical significance.
Conclusion: Small albeit significant changes occurred over time in the weight of the diaper. These changes were greater for the larger volumes of liquid as compared to the smaller volumes. These changes were too small to be of clinical significance and it is appropriate to wait and weigh all the diapers at the end of an 8-hour nursing shift. Findings from this study should become the basis of pediatric nursing policy to ensure consistent nursing care that is based on evidence.