Toward a Classification of Neonatal Brachial Plexus Palsy Intervention

This dissertation resulted in a taxonomy-driven classification defining the process of care for patients with neonatal brachial plexus palsy (NBPP) using practice-based evidence (PBE) methodology. The comprehensive taxonomy-driven classification categorized and defined patient characteristics, evaluations, and interventions for patients with NBPP. This dissertation was comprised of three interrelated studies. Based on a retrospective medical record review, study one identified patient characteristics, evaluations, and interventions documented by an interdisciplinary team treating patients with NBPP in a pediatric, orthopedic hospital as a first step toward developing the taxonomy-driven classification. Study one resulted in comprehensive categories of patient characteristics, types of imaging used, and surgical interventions. Study two completed the taxonomy-driven classification by further categorizing and defining evaluation guidelines and therapeutic interventions for patients with NBPP. Study two also developed documentation, based on the classification, for systematic data collection. Study three identified the taxonomy-driven classification as a feasible and reliable method to document the process of care for patients with NBPP in a pediatric, orthopedic hospital setting.