In this issue we are continuing our practice of focusing on a clinical issue of concern to most of our readers. Since the turn of the century technological advances have contributed to improved outcomes of high risk newborns requiring surgical intervention. Advancements include the specialization of multiple pediatric medical subspecialties, nurse practitioners, respiratory therapist and most important, bedside nurses. Treatments required of infants who receive surgical intervention is very challenging and often necessitates the use of specialized equipment and intensive or acute care for weeks to months. This treatment requires the expertise of nurses.1 From managing pain immediately post op to preparing parents for a complex discharge nurses are at the forefront of care.

In this issue we begin with two articles dedicated to the care of infants with complex surgical conditions. The first article provides an excellent overview of care of the infant with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt common to many neonatal settings. The second article presents a highly complex case of a preterm infant with congenital infantile fibrosarcoma. We will continue this series in the first issue of 2018 and we hope you will enjoy the content.

Towards the end of 2018 we have a special series planned focused on congenital infections. From the typical concerns of cytomegalovirus to the new challenges around assessment for the Zika virus we hope you will consider submission of a manuscript. If you have an idea for a manuscript around this topical area, please contact us with your ideas.

Sincerely,

Debra Brandon, PhD, RN, CCNS, FAAN

Coeditor; Advances in Neonatal Care

[email protected]

Jacqueline M. McGrath, PhD, RN, FNAP, FAAN

Coeditor; Advances in Neonatal Care

[email protected]

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