Case of The Year: A Preterm Infant with Liver Failure of Unknown Origin
This is a gripping and mysterious case study that begins with the premature birth of Baby C at 31 weeks and 6 days. What initially appeared to be a stable NICU course quickly unraveled into a complex clinical puzzle, as signs of liver failure emerged without a clear cause. A multidisciplinary team launched an urgent and expansive investigation, chasing down leads from metabolic disorders to rare infections. As the infant’s condition worsened—marked by seizures, cardiac arrhythmias, and coagulopathy—the mystery deepened, and time was running out. Unexpected test results cracked open the case, revealing a stealthy viral culprit and prompting a bold, compassionate-use treatment with an investigational antiviral. This case invites viewers to follow the twists and turns of a high-stakes diagnostic journey where every clue mattered, and the outcome hung in the balance.
Learning Outcomes:
Describe the aspects of a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation for a neonate with liver failure of unknown origin.
Identify the prevalence, possible presentation, and potential sequelae of the disease process that will be revealed in the case.
Explore potential options for supportive care and treatment for the disease process highlighted in the case.
CE Credit Information:
Participants can earn 1 CE credit for viewing the presentation and completing the evaluation.
The National Association of Neonatal Nurses is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
Rachel Rutland, MSN, APRN-CNP, NNP-BC, RNC-NIC
Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
Rachel Rutland, MSN, APRN-CNP, NNP-BC, RNC-NIC is a neonatal nurse practitioner at Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s level IV NICU in Columbus, Ohio. After concluding 16 years as a professional ballet dancer, Rachel sought a profession where she could infuse just as much passion and dedication. She absolutely found that in neonatal nursing and then as a neonatal nurse practitioner. Rachel completed both undergraduate and graduate studies at the University of Indianapolis, and she is excited to embark on the Doctor of Nursing Practice program at the University of Indianapolis in the fall. She believes that it is a true privilege to care for our fragile NICU infants and their families, and she is honored and thrilled to be presenting the 2024 NANN and VON Case of the Year.
Speaker has no relevant financial disclosures.





