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Blue Band Project Overview

BLUE BAND PROJECT OVERVIEW

In October 2020, MNPQC partnered with CentraCare to collaborate on the Blue Band Project. CentraCare St. Cloud is a regional hospital in Central Minnesota serving micropolitan and rural populations, and is a hub for pregnant and postpartum services. In the Blue Band Project, providers in hospitals and clinics screen pregnant and postpartum patients with a universal tool, to determine current and future risk factors for Hypertension. Patients determined to be at risk are offered education and a blue bracelet to wear throughout pregnancy and through 6 weeks postpartum. The bracelet identifies them as being at risk for eclampsia and stroke and provides internet resources for the patient and providers.

What are blue bands?
A bracelet that is given to a patient diagnosed with preeclampsia to identify them as being at risk for eclampsia and stroke and provides resources for the patient, healthcare professionals, and first responders/EMTs that may interface with the patient at any time during pregnancy or the postpartum period. 
Where are they used locally?
Where are they used nationally?
When are they used?

Blue Bands are given after an individual has been diagnosed with preeclampsia and are to be worn throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period.

Why are they used?
Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy (HDP) are increasing in incidence and are a leading cause of severe maternal morbidity and mortality in the United States, with a large majority of cases being preventable. Recognizing the urgency of timely intervention, the blue bands serve as a visual cue to not only highlight the risks but also act as an indicator for other healthcare professionals who may interface with the patient to prioritize prompt and comprehensive care. 
The Blue Band Initiative aims to enhance communication among healthcare providers to understand the unique risks of patients diagnosed with preeclampsia. Pregnant individuals with preeclampsia are equipped with distinctive blue wristbands at the time of diagnosis until their delivery and throughout the postpartum period. This wristband serves as a clear indicator of their heightened risk and offers access to online resources for both the patient and healthcare professionals, as well as any first responders or EMTs who may attend to the patient. Blue Bands empower birthing individuals to proactively address symptoms or concerns as they pursue necessary care by providing a visible reminder of their condition and ensuring ongoing support from healthcare providers.