Improving neonatal complications with a structured multidisciplinary approach to gestational diabetes mellitus management.

BACKGROUND: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common condition that affects pregnant women and may result in maternal as well as fetal and neonatal complications. Optimal coordinated management may reduce these complications if applied in team approach following generally accepted international guidelines.

METHODS: A retrospective analysis of the neonatal outcomes of GDM mothers who were followed in a tertiary medical center in the United Arab Emirates. The aim of the study was to assess the efficacy of a comprehensive and multidisciplinary GDM program which was applied to a quality improvement project. Clinical neonatal outcome indicators were compared at two time periods, one before the implementation in (2005-2006) and the other was following the initiation of this comprehensive multidisciplinary program in (2011-2012).

RESULTS: Follow up results revealed increased caesarian section and admission to neonatal intensive care unit. There was decreased incidence of macrosomia and a significant reduction of neonatal hypoglycemia in the newborn of GDM mothers. Overall rate of neonatal complications showed a significant improvement.

CONCLUSIONS: Implementing a structured comprehensive multidisciplinary program to manage GDM women has a positive impact on improving the care and outcomes of neonates.