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Cigdem Z, Guler S, Yavas Celik M. Restriction of visits to neonatal intensive care units in the COVID-19 pandemic. J Eval Clin Pract 2024. [PMID: 38976629 DOI: 10.1111/jep.14092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study, it examine how visits to neonatal intensive care units were made during the COVID-19 process and how mothers were affected by this process. METHODS In this phenomenological study, interviews were conducted with semi-structured questions and face-to-face interviews with the participants. While collecting the data, both observation and interview techniques were used. A content analysis technique was used to analyse the data. RESULTS The findings of the study were gathered under two themes: 'mothers' recommendations about visits in neonatal intensive care units' and 'mothers' fear of transmitting COVID-19'. CONCLUSION As a result, visitor restrictions implemented during the pandemic period hurt on newborns. During the pandemic period, visitor restrictions were imposed in neonatal intensive care units around the world. Unfortunately, in our study, it was determined that this restriction was made. This situation may have adversely affected the mother-infant attachment and the growth and development of the baby and may have led to irreversible problems. Therefore, newborn nurses should give more importance to mother-infant interaction and continue their treatment and care without separating infants from their mothers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zerrin Cigdem
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul Topkapı University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Selver Guler
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kilis 7 Aralık University, Kilis, Turkey
| | - Melike Yavas Celik
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
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MacNeil M, Campbell-Yeo M, McCulloch H, Hughes B, Dol J, Marriott N, Smith V, Alcock L. Parental Perspectives on Impact of Parental Presence Restrictions in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit During the COVID-19 pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs 2023; 37:E17-E23. [PMID: 37773590 DOI: 10.1097/jpn.0000000000000714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe parental experiences in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) during the COVID-19 restrictions. We explore what parents found most challenging, the impact these restrictions had on them and their infant, and how they coped. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey was completed by parents of infants who required care in a Canadian NICU during the early period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from 3 questions were coded using thematic analysis. RESULTS Participants ( n = 161) were primarily mothers (93%), with an average length of stay of 32.1 days. Three themes were identified from responses: (1) emotional and physical closeness of the parents to their infant; (2) physical and psychosocial well-being of the infant and parent; and (3) how parents coped, and strategies for moving forward. Parents reported that parental restriction policies adversely impacted their perceived physical and emotional closeness with their infant and their infant's physical and psychosocial well-being. Parents reported that being able to be present with their infant, having their partner able to be present with them, and effective communication helped them cope. CONCLUSION Despite the need for some restrictive policies to control the spread of the virus, the benefits and risks to the overall well-being of the parents and infants must be weighed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan MacNeil
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health (Mss MacNeil and Hughes and Dr Campbell-Yeo), and Departments of Pediatrics, Psychology and Neuroscience (Dr Campbell-Yeo), Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; IWK Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada (Mss MacNeil, McCulloch, Hughes, Marriott, Smith, and Alcock and Drs Campbell-Yeo and Dol); Department of Nursing, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada (Ms Hughes); and Mothering Transitions Research Lab, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Dr Dol)
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Wray J, Ndokera R, Pierce CM, Oldham G. The impact of restrictions to visiting in paediatric intensive care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurs Crit Care 2023; 28:818-825. [PMID: 36593739 DOI: 10.1111/nicc.12873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Restrictions to hospital visiting were mandated during the COVID-19 pandemic, with variability in the degree of restriction imposed. At times, paediatric intensive care units (ICU) restricted visiting to one parent/carer. Views of parents/carers and ICU staff about changes in the visiting policy are not well understood. STUDY DESIGN This is a Service evaluation involving questionnaire survey incorporating rating scales and free-text comments. Inner-city specialist children's hospital. Parents/carers of children on ICU between December 2020-March 2021 and staff who were working on ICU during May-June 2021. Parents and staff on ICU were invited to complete a questionnaire focusing on their experience of being or working on ICU. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively and free-text comments were thematically analysed. RESULTS Completed questionnaires were received from 81/103 (79%) parents/carers and 217/550 (39%) staff. The majority of parents (n = 60;77%) and staff (n = 191;89%) understood the need for the one-parent visiting policy but acknowledged it was a source of considerable stress. More staff than parents agreed it was appropriate other relatives/friends visiting was not permitted (Z = 3.715;p < .001). There was no association between parents' satisfaction with their child's care and views about the visiting policy. However, staff were more likely to report an impact on their ability to deliver family centred care if they disagreed with the policy. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 visiting policy had a clear impact on parents and staff. In the event of any future threat to open-access visiting to children in hospital, the potentially damaging effect on children, parents, and staff must be considered. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Visiting policies need to take account of parents being partners in their child's care, rather than purely visitors to the unit where their child is being cared for. Visiting for two carers should always be facilitated, including during a crisis such as a pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo Wray
- Heart and Lung Directorate, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rufaro Ndokera
- Heart and Lung Directorate, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Christine M Pierce
- Heart and Lung Directorate, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Geralyn Oldham
- DRIVE, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Aldiss S, Gibson F, Vindrola-Padros C, Wray J, Kelly P. 'They could not see our eyes, they cannot see our faces, they do not know who we are and that is hard': a qualitative interview study with staff caring for children and families in a UK specialist children's hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e070048. [PMID: 37316313 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-070048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite lower rates of illness, morbidity and mortality associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection in children during the COVID-19 pandemic, their health and well-being has been significantly impacted. Emerging evidence indicates that this includes experiences of hospital-based care for them and their families. As part of a series of multisite research studies to undertake a rapid appraisal of perceptions of hospital staff, working during the pandemic, our study focused on clinical and non-clinical staff perceptions of the impact of COVID-19 on aspects of care delivery, preparedness and staffing specific to a specialist children's hospital. DESIGN Qualitative study using a qualitative rapid appraisal design. Hospital staff participated in a telephone interview. We used a semistructured interview guide, and recorded and transcribed all interviews. Rapid Research Evaluation and Appraisal Lab Rapid Assessment Procedure sheets were used to share data; team-based analysis was facilitated using a framework approach. SETTING Specialist children's hospital in London, UK. PARTICIPANTS Thirty-six staff representing a range of roles within the hospital: 19 (53%) nurses, 7 (19%) medical staff and 10 (28%) other staff groups (including radiographers, managers, play staff, schoolteachers, domestic and portering staff and social workers). RESULTS Three overarching themes relating to staff perceptions of the impact on children and families were identified, each containing subthemes: (1) same hospital but different for everyone, (2) families paid the price and (3) the digital world. They illustrated that providing care and treatment for children and families changed profoundly during the pandemic, particularly during lockdown periods. Adaptations to deliver clinical care, play, schooling and other therapies online were rapidly put into action; however, benefits were not universal or always inclusive. CONCLUSIONS The disruption to a central principle of children's hospital care-the presence and involvement of families-was of critical concern to staff, suggesting a need for the specific impact of COVID-19 on children's services to be accounted for.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susie Aldiss
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Faith Gibson
- School of Health Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
- Centre for Outcomes and Experience Research in Children's Health, Illness and Disability (ORCHID), Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Cecilia Vindrola-Padros
- Rapid Research Evaluation and Appraisal Lab (RREAL), Department of Targeted Intervention, University College London, London, UK
| | - Jo Wray
- Centre for Outcomes and Experience Research in Children's Health, Illness and Disability (ORCHID), Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Paula Kelly
- Centre for Outcomes and Experience Research in Children's Health, Illness and Disability (ORCHID), Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Dudeck S, Hibler E, Gill K, Shantz T, Kovick L, Cypress B, Caboral-Stevens M. A Concept Analysis of Family Presence During COVID-19. Dimens Crit Care Nurs 2023; 42:137-145. [PMID: 36996358 DOI: 10.1097/dcc.0000000000000578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic required health care organizations throughout the United States to implement strict visitor restriction policies to mitigate the spread of the virus. These policy changes had a direct impact on family presence (FP) in hospital settings. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to conduct a concept analysis of FP during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Walker and Avant's 8-step method was used. RESULTS Four defining attributes of FP during COVID-19 were derived based on a review of the literature: being there or with, seeing is believing, during challenging times, and subjective advocates. The COVID-19 pandemic was the main antecedent of the concept. The consequences and empirical referents were discussed. Model, borderline, and contrary cases were developed. CONCLUSION This concept analysis provided an understanding of the concept of FP during COVID-19, which is imperative to optimizing patient care outcomes, as literature identified a support person or system as an extension of the care team that facilitates successful care management. Whether by advocating for their patients to have a support person present during team rounds, or by stepping in as the patient's main support system in the absence of family, nurses must find a way to do what is best for their patients even during the unprecedented times of a global pandemic.
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Monti L, Marconi E, Bocci MG, Kotzalidis GD, Mazza M, Galliani C, Tranquilli S, Vento G, Conti G, Sani G, Antonelli M, Chieffo DPR. COVID-19 pandemic in the intensive care unit: Psychological implications and interventions, a systematic review. World J Psychiatry 2023; 13:191-217. [PMID: 37123099 PMCID: PMC10130962 DOI: 10.5498/wjp.v13.i4.191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic produced changes in intensive care units (ICUs) in patient care and health organizations. The pandemic event increased patients’ risk of developing psychological symptoms during and after hospitalisation. These consequences also affected those family members who could not access the hospital. In addition, the initial lack of knowledge about the virus and its management, the climate of fear and uncertainty, the increased workload and the risk of becoming infected and being contagious, had a strong impact on healthcare staff and organizations. This highlighted the importance of interventions aimed at providing psychological support to ICUs, involving patients, their relatives, and the staff; this might involve the reorganisation of the daily routine and rearrangement of ICU staff duties.
AIM To conduct a systematic review of psychological issues in ICUs during the COVID-19 pandemic involving patients, their relatives, and ICU staff.
METHODS We investigated the PubMed and the ClinicalTrials.gov databases and found 65 eligible articles, upon which we commented.
RESULTS Our results point to increased perceived stress and psychological distress in staff, patients and their relatives and increased worry for being infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 in patients and relatives. Furthermore, promising results were obtained for some psychological programmes aiming at improving psychological measures in all ICU categories.
CONCLUSION As the pandemic limited direct inter-individual interactions, the role of interventions using digital tools and virtual reality is becoming increasingly important. All considered, our results indicate an essential role for psychologists in ICUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Monti
- UOS Psicologia Clinica, Governo Clinico, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Elisa Marconi
- UOS Psicologia Clinica, Governo Clinico, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Bocci
- UOC Anestesia, Rianimazione, Terapia Intensiva e Tossicologia Clinica, Dipartimento di Scienze Dell’Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e Della Rianimazione, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Georgios Demetrios Kotzalidis
- UOC Psichiatria Clinica e d’Urgenza, Dipartimento di Scienze Dell’Invecchiamento, Neurologiche, Ortopediche e Della Testa-collo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy
- NESMOS Department, Facoltà di Medicina e Psicologia, Sant’Andrea University Hospital, Rome 00189, Italy
| | - Marianna Mazza
- UOC Psichiatria Clinica e d’Urgenza, Dipartimento di Scienze Dell’Invecchiamento, Neurologiche, Ortopediche e Della Testa-collo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Carolina Galliani
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Sara Tranquilli
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Giovanni Vento
- UOC Neonatologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Della Salute Della Donna, Del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy
- UOC Neonatologia, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Giorgio Conti
- UOC Terapia Intensiva Pediatrica e Trauma Center Pediatrico, Dipartimento di Scienze Dell’Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e Della Rianimazione, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy
- UOC Terapia Intensiva Pediatrica e Trauma Center Pediatrico, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Gabriele Sani
- UOC Psichiatria Clinica e d’Urgenza, Dipartimento di Scienze Dell’Invecchiamento, Neurologiche, Ortopediche e Della Testa-collo, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy
- Department of Psychiatry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Massimo Antonelli
- UOC Anestesia, Rianimazione, Terapia Intensiva e Tossicologia Clinica, Dipartimento di Scienze Dell’Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e Della Rianimazione, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Daniela Pia Rosaria Chieffo
- UOS Psicologia Clinica, Governo Clinico, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy
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Richter LL, Ku C, Mak MYY, Holsti L, Kieran E, Alonso-Prieto E, Ranger M. Experiences of Mothers of Preterm Infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Adv Neonatal Care 2023:00149525-990000000-00061. [PMID: 37036932 DOI: 10.1097/anc.0000000000001071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay following the birth of a preterm infant can be stressful and traumatic for families. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the NICU environment changed precipitously as infection control and visitor restriction measures were implemented. PURPOSE Our study aimed to examine the impact of the pandemic policies on the experiences of mothers of preterm infants during their stay in the NICU. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted with mothers of preterm infants hospitalized in a Canadian tertiary-level NICU. Informed by interpretive description methodology, interview content was transcribed and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. The identified themes were validated, clarified, or refined using investigator triangulation. RESULTS Nine English-speaking mothers, aged 28 to 40 years, were interviewed. Four themes emerged from the analysis of their experiences: (1) disrupted family dynamic, support, and bonding; (2) physical and emotional isolation; (3) negative psychological impact compounded by added concerns, maternal role change, and survival mode mentality; and (4) positive aspects of the pandemic management measures. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE During the pandemic, the way that care was provided in the NICU changed. This study helps to explore how neonatal clinicians can foster individual and organizational resilience to keep patients and families at the center of care, even when the healthcare system is under intense stress. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH : Our results show that these changes heightened mothers' distress, but also had a modest positive impact. Further research about long-term consequences of pandemic policies on the mother and preterm infant after NICU discharge is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay L Richter
- Department of Pediatrics (Ms Richter and Drs Holsti, Kieran, Alonso-Prieto, and Ranger), Emergency Medicine (Ms Mak), and Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy (Dr Holsti), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Women's Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (Ms Richter and Drs Holsti, Kieran, Alonso-Prieto, and Ranger); and School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (Ms Ku and Dr Ranger)
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Kılıç ST, Taşgıt A. Sociodemographic factors affecting depression-anxiety-stress levels and coping strategies of parents with babies treated in neonatal intensive care units during the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF NEONATAL NURSING : JNN 2023; 29:375-386. [PMID: 35965613 PMCID: PMC9359935 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnn.2022.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to determine the sociodemographic factors affecting the depression-anxiety-stress levels and coping strategies of parents with babies treated in neonatal intensive care units during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between March and October 2021. The sample consisted of 93 parents. Data were collected using a descriptive questionnaire, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS- 42), and Coping Style Scale (CSS). Results Participants had mean DASS "depression," "anxiety," and "stress" subscale scores of 13.69 ± 8.86, 12.11 ± 8.37, and 19.09 ± 9.24, respectively. They had mean CSS "self-confident," "optimistic," "helpless," "submissive coping," and "seeking of social support" subscale scores of 2.71 ± 0.65, 2.57 ± 0.59, 2.29 ± 0.62, 2.25 ± 0.49, and 2.38 ± 0.52, respectively. Fathers had lower mean CSS "helpless" and "submissive" subscale scores than mothers. Participants who were briefed about their babies' condition by nurses had lower mean CSS "helpless" and "submissive" subscale scores than others. Participants with higher education had lower mean CSS "helpless" and "submissive" subscale scores than others. Participants with spouses with bachelor's or higher degrees had a higher median CSS "optimistic" subscale score than those with literate spouses or spouses with primary school degrees. Participants who were worried about the "no visitors" policy had a lower median CSS "self-confident" subscale score than those who were not. Conclusions Parents who are not allowed to see their babies due to the "no visitors" policy during the COVID-19 pandemic experience more psychosocial problems. Though not a result of the present study, the "no visitors" policy seems to affect the mother-infant attachment adversely. Practice implications Healthcare professionals should brief parents about what a neonatal intensive care unit is like. They should also warn them that they may not be too happy about how their baby looks before seeing them. Therefore, they should use therapeutic communication techniques to talk to them and explain the situation in a way they can understand. Moreover, they should provide parents with psychological empowerment training programs to help them adopt active coping strategies to deal with challenges in times of crisis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevcan T. Kılıç
- Gerontology Department, ÇankırıKaratekin University, Çankırı, Turkey,Corresponding author. Gerontology Deparment, Çankırı Karatekin University, Çankırı, 18200, Turkey
| | - Asena Taşgıt
- Health Ministry of Turkish Republic Ankara City Hospital, Turkey
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Aftyka A, Rybojad B, Mędrzycka-Dąbrowska W. Neonatal Pictures in a NICU as a Mode of Nursing Intervention to Enhance Parent-Infant Bonding: Parents' Experience during the COVID Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3576. [PMID: 36834269 PMCID: PMC9958686 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neonatal departments around the world have changed their policies to prevent the spread of infection during the COVID-19 pandemic. The birth of an extremely premature baby can disrupt physical contact between the mother/parent and the baby. This situation affects the bonding process between mother and child. The aim of the study was to investigate the opinions of parents who receive photographs or videos of their children electronically on the usefulness of this intervention, as well as the emotional reaction of parents to the photos or videos received, and potential ways to improve the intervention. METHODS The study used a qualitative approach and relied on phenomenology, which is a research method used to study experience as experienced from the subjective point of view. Pilot interviews were conducted in January and February 2021, and the final study ran from March to June 2021. RESULTS The uploaded photographs and videos provided a useful communication tool. The parents' emotions at the proposal to send photographs of the child and while viewing the first photographs were strong and marked by considerable ambivalence. CONCLUSIONS This study showed how important it is to ensure communication between the parent and the medical staff. Despite the positive reception, in the future obtaining consent from the legal guardian for taking pictures should be considered, whether this form will be accepted, and to ensure the presence of medical staff while the parent is watching the photographs/videos, as this method of communication will not fully ensure direct skin-to-skin contact to build bonds between the parent and the infant. Neonatal intensive care units need to find strategies to mitigate the impact of separation on parental experiences and bonds should a similar situation arise in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Aftyka
- Department of Anaesthesiological and Intensive Care Nursing, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland
| | - Beata Rybojad
- Clinic of Anaesthesiology and Paediatric Intensive Care, Medical University of Lublin, Gebali Str. 6, 20-093 Lublin, Poland
| | - Wioletta Mędrzycka-Dąbrowska
- Department of Anaesthesiology Nursing & Intensive Care, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University in Gdansk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland
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Campbell-Yeo M, Dol J, McCulloch H, Hughes B, Hundert A, Bacchini F, Whitehead L, Afifi J, Alcock L, Bishop T, Dorling J, Earle R, Elliott Rose A, Inglis D, Leighton C, MacRae G, Melanson A, Simpson CD, Smit M. The Impact of Parental Presence Restrictions on Canadian Parents in the NICU During COVID-19: A National Survey. JOURNAL OF FAMILY NURSING 2023; 29:18-27. [PMID: 35915967 PMCID: PMC9850074 DOI: 10.1177/10748407221114326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to explore parental perspectives on the impact of parent restrictions imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic across Canadian Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). A co-designed online survey was conducted targeting parents (n = 235) of infants admitted to a Canadian NICU from March 1, 2020, until March 5, 2021. Parents completed the survey from 38 Canadian NICUs. Large variation in the severity of policies regarding parental presence was reported. Most respondents (68.9%) were classified as experiencing high restrictions, with one or no support people allowed in the NICU, and felt that policies were less easy to understand, felt less valued and respected, and found it more challenging to access medicine or health care. Parents reported gaps in care related to self-care, accessibility, and mental health outcomes. There is significant variation in parental restrictions implemented across Canadian NICUs. National guidelines are needed to support consistent and equitable care practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jehier Afifi
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS,
Canada
- IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | | | - Jon Dorling
- University Hospital Southampton NHS
Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - C. David Simpson
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS,
Canada
- IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Psychosocial Difficulties Experienced By Parents Of Babies Treated In A Neonatal Intensive Care Unit During The Coronavirus Pandemic. Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2022; 41:295-299. [PMID: 36428063 PMCID: PMC9444850 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2022.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study had two objectives: (1) to investigate the psychosocial difficulties experienced by parents of babies treated in a neonatal intensive care unit during the coronavirus pandemic and (2) to determine parent-infant attachment. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study adopted phenomenology, a qualitative research design in order to answer the research questions design. The sample consisted of 20 parents of babies treated in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a City Hospital in Turkey between July and August 2021. Participation was voluntary. Data were collected using a sociodemographic characteristics questionnaire and a semi-structured qualitative interview form. Each participant was interviewed face to face. Each interview was recorded and transcribed. The data were analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS Participants had a mean age of 32.2 ± 3.61 years and at least secondary school degrees. Babies were admitted to the NICU for congenital anomalies (n = 3) or preterm birth (n = 7). Participants experienced anxiety, worry, and loneliness and produced less milk because they could not see and touch their babies. Their greatest source of support was their spouses. CONCLUSION Parents of babies treated in the NICU during the COVID-19 pandemic experience anxiety, sadness, unhappiness, and loneliness. The preventive measures against the pandemic affect parents psychosocially. Healthcare professionals should plan and implement care practices and establish effective communication with parents to identify their physiological, psychological, and social needs and help them produce breastmilk and bond with their babies.
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Davis KM, Lu L, Williams B, Roas-Gomez MV, Leziak K, Jackson J, Feinglass J, Yee LM. The Stress of Parenting in the Postpartum Period During the COVID-19 Pandemic. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS (NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y.) 2022; 3:895-903. [PMID: 36479375 PMCID: PMC9712040 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2022.0029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic produced a major shift in parental roles, which disproportionally exacerbated existing challenges for low-income new parents. Our objective was to identify pandemic-related parenting challenges experienced by low-income postpartum individuals in the context of the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Semistructured interviews with 40 low-income postpartum individuals were conducted within 10 weeks after giving birth in April 2020-June 2020. Interviews addressed maternal health and well-being, parental stress, including COVID-related barriers to providing for children, and access to essential services. Interview themes were developed using the constant comparative method. Results Half (n = 20) the participants identified as non-Hispanic Black and 38% (n = 15) as Hispanic; 75% (n = 30) were parents of multiple children. Parenting-related themes included challenges of parenting multiple children, barriers to maintaining self-care, and novel barriers to providing for children. Participants discussed handling new roles as educators, struggles with entertaining, allocating time among children, and effects of the pandemic on older children. Participants frequently described their lack of alone time, changes in self-care and coping strategies due to continuous parenting, and effects on maternal mental health like increased anxiety. Many participants reported lack of communal support, financial stress, and difficulty accessing services. Conclusions New burdens introduced by the pandemic challenged low-income individuals' health and well-being. Understanding these psychosocial stressors and developing interventions to ameliorate these burdens may be key to promoting family health during difficult times; one potential solution for preventing postpartum depression is offering continual social services. Clinical Trial No.: NCT03922334.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka'Derricka M. Davis
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Layna Lu
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Brittney Williams
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Maria V. Roas-Gomez
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Karolina Leziak
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Jenise Jackson
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Joe Feinglass
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, and Department of Preventive Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lynn M. Yee
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Address correspondence to: Lynn M. Yee, MD, MPH, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, 250 E. Superior Street, Suite 5-2145, Chicago, IL 60611, USA,
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Brandon D, McGrath JM. Missed Caregiving: A Call to Action for Health System Leadership. Adv Neonatal Care 2022; 22:379-380. [PMID: 36044755 DOI: 10.1097/anc.0000000000001034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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14
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Felser S, Sewtz C, Kriesen U, Kragl B, Hamann T, Bock F, Strüder DF, Schafmayer C, Dräger DL, Junghanss C. Relatives Experience More Psychological Distress Due to COVID-19 Pandemic-Related Visitation Restrictions Than In-Patients. Front Public Health 2022; 10:862978. [PMID: 35910882 PMCID: PMC9326244 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.862978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic led to visiting restrictions (VRs) of patients in hospitals. Social contacts between patients' relatives play an important role in convalescence. Isolation may cause new psychological comorbidity. The present study investigated the psychological distress of VR in in-patients and their relatives. Methods From April 1, 2020 to May 20, 2020, 313 in-patients (≥14 years) of the University Medical Center Rostock were interviewed by questionnaires and 51 relatives by phone. Subjective psychological distress was assessed by a distress thermometer [0 (not at all)−100 (extreme)]. The study also investigated stressors due to VR, psychological distress in dependence on demographic or disease-related data, currently used communication channels and desired alternatives and support. Results Relatives were more psychologically distressed by VR than in-patients (59 ± 34 vs. 38 ± 30, p = 0.002). Loss of direct physical contact and facial expressions/gestures resulted in the most distress. Psychological distress due to VR was independent of demographics and indicates small positive correlations with the severity of physical restriction and the general psychological distress of in-patients. The most frequent ways of communication were via phone and social media. Frequently requested alternatives for patients were other interlocutors and free phone/tablet use, for relatives visiting rooms with partitions. Conclusion VRs are a stressor for patients and their relatives. The establishment of visiting rooms with partitions and the free use of phones/tablets could reduce the additional distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabine Felser
- Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinic III, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
- *Correspondence: Sabine Felser
| | - Corinna Sewtz
- Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinic III, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Ursula Kriesen
- Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinic III, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Brigitte Kragl
- Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinic III, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Till Hamann
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Felix Bock
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Daniel Fabian Strüder
- Head and Neck Surgery “Otto Koerner”, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Clemens Schafmayer
- Department of General Surgery, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | | | - Christian Junghanss
- Hematology, Oncology, Palliative Medicine, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinic III, University Hospital Rostock, Rostock, Germany
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Helmers AJ, Anderson JA, Kirsch RE. Caregiver COVID-19 Vaccination Status in Pediatric Hospitals-Ethics of Exclusion. JAMA Pediatr 2022; 176:441-442. [PMID: 35226057 DOI: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2021.6582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Helmers
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Bioethics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - James A Anderson
- Department of Bioethics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Roxanne E Kirsch
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Bioethics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Zhuang Y, Zhang R, Gao XR, Zhu LH, Latour JM. Validation of the Chinese Empowerment of Parents in the Intensive Care (EMPATHIC-30) Questionnaire Among Parents in Neonatal Intensive Care Units: A Prospective Cross-Sectional Study. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:851291. [PMID: 35433534 PMCID: PMC9005953 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.851291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are no specific validated questionnaires assessing satisfaction of family-centered care experienced by parents of infants hospitalized in Chinese Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU). AIM To adapt and test the reliability and validity of the Chinese version of the EMPATHIC-30 questionnaire in NICU settings. METHODS A prospective, cross-sectional design was adopted. The EMPATHIC-30 questionnaires were completed by parents of infants admitted to one of the four NICUs at Hunan Children's Hospital, China, between November 2018 and 2019. Inclusion criteria were parents whose infants were admitted to the NICU for at least 5 days. Exclusion criteria were parents whose children were discharged within 5 days after admission or whose infants died in the NICU. Reliability was tested with Cronbach's alpha. The congruent validity was tested using Spearman's Rank correlation analysis, and the non-differential validity was tested using Cohen's d. RESULTS Parents of 619 infants discharged from the NICUs completed and returned the questionnaire. Most infants were male (n = 337, 54.4%) and infants' length of stay was a median of 21 days (IQR = 14-37). Mostly, mothers completed the questionnaire (n = 523, 84.5%). The Cronbach's alpha values of the five individual domains were between 0.67 and 0.95, and the alpha of the total questionnaire was.90, providing an adequate internal consistency. Congruent validity was measured by correlating the five domains with four standard satisfaction scales, documenting a weak correlation (r s -0.025-0.327). Non-differential validity showed some significant effect size between four binary variables (mechanical ventilation, unplanned admission, admission after surgery, length of stay) four of the five domains. CONCLUSION The Chinese version of EMPATHIC-30 questionnaire showed acceptable psychometric properties. This instrument might be considered a suitable instrument to measure parent satisfaction among Chinese parents whose infants are admitted to an NICU. Measuring parent satisfaction with this instrument might contribute to improving family-centered care initiatives in NICUs with Chinese parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhuang
- Neonatal Department, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Rong Zhang
- Neonatal Department, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Xi-Rong Gao
- Neonatal Department, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Li-Hui Zhu
- Nursing Department, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Jos M Latour
- Nursing Department, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China.,Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, United Kingdom
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