Keywords
Spina Bifida
Pediatric Nursing
Nursing Care
Patient Care Management
Open Spinal Dysraphism
Open Spina Bifida
Pediatric Care
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction. Myelomeningocele (MMC) is an open spinal dysraphism characterized by a neural tube defect in which the spinal cord, nerves and meninges protrude through a skin defect, predominantly in the lumbosacral region. Nursing care is essential in the early management of affected newborns, encompassing monitoring, prevention of complications, family support, and interdisciplinary coordination to ensure continuous care.
Objective. This scoping review aims to systematically map the available literature on hospital-based nursing care for pediatric patients with MMC and identify knowledge gaps in order to provide an up-to-date overview of the state of the art and to suggest areas for future research.
Methods and Analysis. This protocol follows the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. The review will include primary research studies, clinical guidelines, and expert opinions published in English and Italian, without time restrictions. We will search PubMed/MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, OpenGrey, and Google Scholar. Two independent reviewers will conduct screening and data extraction using Rayyan. Data will be synthesized thematically and presented in tabular and narrative formats.
Expected Results. Preliminary evidence highlights three main pillars in the management of myelomeningocele: prevention of complications, optimization of functionality, and enhancement of patient well-being. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to address the complex needs of neonates with MMC, with nurses playing a key role in coordinating care, ensuring continuity, and monitoring clinical status. Current recommendations emphasize specific nursing interventions for early care, including protective positioning, sterile dressing techniques, and allergen avoidance. However, despite the presence of some guidance, perioperative nursing practices remain underexplored in the literature. This review aims to identify, map, and summarize existing evidence to support and improve clinical nursing care for pediatric patients with MMC.
Ethics and Dissemination. Ethical approval is not required for this review. Findings will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated through academic conferences and institutional training.
Protocol Registration. osf.io/rnc9u
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Copyright (c) 2026 Carlotta Zanetti, Chiara D'Orazio, Federico Cortese, Emanuele Bascelli, Angela Peghetti