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Tajik F, Mahmoodi M, Azodi P, Jahanpour F. Nurse-mother communication and support: Perceptions of mothers in neonatal units. Heliyon 2024; 10:e29325. [PMID: 38644893 PMCID: PMC11033110 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e29325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Having a hospitalized neonate is a stressful experience for parents, especially mothers. Thus, in recent years, a paradigm shift occurred in the neonatal units, focusing on the needs of parents and supporting them in addition to caring for neonates. The aim of this study was to evaluate the nurse-mother communication and support in neonatal units in Bushehr, Iran. Method This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed in neonatal units of 6 hospitals in Bushehr, Iran, in 2022. Using the census method, all eligible mothers who met the inclusion criteria were included in this study. Data collection tools included demographic information form, nurse-parent support tool and nurse-parent communication questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed by SPSS version 24 using descriptive statistics, independent t-test, one-way ANOVA and Pearson correlation test. Results The total mean score of nurse-parent support tool was 3.72 ± 0.72 and the total mean score of nurse-parent communication questionnaire was 59/27 ± 12/82. Caregiving support had the highest mean score (4.07 ± 73 0.73) and emotional support had the lowest (3.42 ± 91 0.91). Also, a statistically significant difference was seen between the admitted unit variable and the mean score of nurse-mother communication and support. Additionally, there was a statistically significant difference between the mechanical ventilation status of the neonate and the mean score of nurse-mother support. A significant positive correlation was seen between the neonatal gestational age and the mean score of nurse-mother communication. Conclusions The total mean score of nurse-parent support and communication was moderate. Therefore, nursing support and communication need to be improved. Planning is needed to enhance the role of neonatal nurses and strengthen their support and communication skills in line with the family-centered care approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnoosh Tajik
- Department of Pediatric and Neonatal nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
- MSc in Pediatric Nursing, Nursing and Midwifery Department, Member of Student Research Committee, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Marzieh Mahmoodi
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology Department, Health and Nutrition Faculty, Clinical Research Development Center, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Parviz Azodi
- Paramedical Sciences Department, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Faezeh Jahanpour
- Nursing and Midwifery Department, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
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Rodrigues SM, Shin SS, Pinto MD, Bounds DT, Terry J, Burton CW. Parenting Expectations, NICU Experiences, and Maternal Psychological Outcomes: An Exploratory Mixed-Methods Study. Adv Neonatal Care 2024; 24:195-207. [PMID: 38215024 DOI: 10.1097/anc.0000000000001139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Infant neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) hospitalization increases maternal risk for psychological distress. However, no universal screening standards exist and predicting maternal risk remains challenging. Reconceptualizing maternal distress in relation to differences between parenting expectations and NICU experiences may illuminate commonalities across a range of experiences. PURPOSE This study explored parenting expectation-experience differences (EEDs) among NICU mothers and assessed correlations between EED scores and psychological outcomes 1 to 5 years post-NICU hospitalization. METHODS A 3-phase explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was used. Pearson's correlation coefficients were used to measure relationships between EED scores and maternal psychological outcomes. Reflexive thematic analysis of one-on-one, semi-structured interviews contextualized EED scores. RESULTS Most participants (92.9%) reported negative EED scores, indicating NICU experiences fell short of parenting expectations. Significant inverse correlations were found between EED scores and maternal outcomes, including depression ( r = -0.25, P < .01), anxiety ( r = -0.25, P < .01) and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms ( r = -0.41, P < .001), and perceived parenting self-efficacy ( r = -0.28, P < .01). Major qualitative themes included unexpected versus prepared, lost parenting experiences, and surviving and thriving. Data synthesis contextualized EED scores and revealed key differences in meaning ascribed to unmet parenting expectations. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE AND RESEARCH Preparing mothers for infant NICU hospitalization and creating a NICU parenting environment, which better supports mothers and their engagement in parenting tasks, may help to reduce differences between parenting expectations and NICU experiences. Further research is needed to elucidate the impacts of parenting EEDs in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Rodrigues
- Author Affiliations: Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine (Drs Rodrigues, Shin, Pinto, and Bounds); Department of Gender & Sexuality Studies, University of California, Irvine (Dr Terry); and School of Nursing, University of Nevada, Las Vegas (Dr Burton)
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Rodrigues SM, Bounds DT, Terry J, Pinto MD, Shin S, Burton CW. Application of Trauma-Informed Care Principles to Care Needs Identified by Mothers of NICU-Hospitalized Children. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2024; 45:142-151. [PMID: 37699105 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2023.2250000] [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: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Systematic uptake of family-centered care (FCC) interventions remains challenging and frequently suboptimal in many neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Across NICUs in the United States, integrating family members as partners in infant caregiving and decision-making has not been well supported and routine screening and provision of psychological support for parents remains inadequate. Trauma-informed care (TIC) may offer a more comprehensive approach to NICU care which can encompass FCC principles and promote family recovery and resilience by recognizing and responding to the traumas experienced by NICU infants and families. The current paper aimed to understand needs identified by mothers of NICU-hospitalized children and reports a focused analysis of one-on-one interview data (n = 13 mothers) collected during a larger mixed methods study. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to understand needs identified by mothers and to explore how these needs aligned with TIC principles. Six themes were identified and subsequently examined in the context of the principles of TIC: I Just Had No Control, That Really Caught Us Off Guard, So Much Was Already Taken Away, We're People and There Needs To Be More Support and Practices Which Helped. Mothers' care needs were found to align with TIC principles. Findings suggest that implementation of TIC principles in NICU settings can support parental presence, participation in infant care, and mental health and support the potential of TIC as a more comprehensive approach to meeting the needs of NICU parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Rodrigues
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Dawn T Bounds
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Jennifer Terry
- Department of Gender & Sexuality Studies, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Melissa D Pinto
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
| | - Sanghyuk Shin
- Sue & Bill Gross School of Nursing, University of California, Irvine, California, USA
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Hurt L, Odd D, Mann M, Beetham H, Dorgeat E, Isaac TC, Ashman A, Wood F. What matters to families about the healthcare of preterm or low birth weight infants: A qualitative evidence synthesis. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 115:107893. [PMID: 37473603 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.107893] [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: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined what matters to families about the healthcare provided to preterm or LBW infants in hospital and the community, to ensure that care meets the needs of infants and parents. METHODS We searched databases to identify eligible studies examining the views and expectations of families. Study quality was assessed using the CASP checklist for qualitative studies. The GRADE-CERQual approach was used to assess confidence in review findings. Studies were sampled and data analysed using thematic synthesis. RESULTS 222 studies (227 papers) were eligible for inclusion. 54 studies (57 papers) were sampled based on data richness, methodological quality, and representation across settings. Eight analytical themes were identified. Confidence in results was moderate to high. What mattered was a positive outcome for the child; active involvement in care; being supported to cope at home after discharge; emotional support; the healthcare environment; information needs met; logistical support available; and positive relationships with staff. CONCLUSION Although parents and family members reported a variety of experiences in the care of their infant, we found high consistency in what matters to families. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS This review identifies approaches to improve experiences of parents which are consistent with the Family Centred Care model of healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Hurt
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK.
| | - David Odd
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | - Mala Mann
- Specialist Unit for Review Evidence, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Emma Dorgeat
- Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
| | | | | | - Fiona Wood
- Division of Population Medicine, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, UK
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Prins S, Linn AJ, van Kaam AHLC, van de Loo M, van Woensel JBM, van Heerde M, Dijk PH, Kneyber MCJ, de Hoog M, Simons SHP, Akkermans AA, Smets EMA, de Vos MA. Diversity of Parent Emotions and Physician Responses During End-of-Life Conversations. Pediatrics 2023; 152:e2022061050. [PMID: 37575087 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-061050] [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] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES To provide support to parents of critically ill children, it is important that physicians adequately respond to parents' emotions. In this study, we investigated emotions expressed by parents, physicians' responses to these expressions, and parents' emotions after the physicians' responses in conversations in which crucial decisions regarding the child's life-sustaining treatment had to be made. METHODS Forty-nine audio-recorded conversations between parents of 12 critically ill children and physicians working in the neonatal and pediatric intensive care units of 3 Dutch university medical centers were coded and analyzed by using a qualitative inductive approach. RESULTS Forty-six physicians and 22 parents of 12 children participated. In all 49 conversations, parents expressed a broad range of emotions, often intertwining, including anxiety, anger, devotion, grief, relief, hope, and guilt. Both implicit and explicit expressions of anxiety were prevalent. Physicians predominantly responded to parental emotions with cognition-oriented approaches, thereby limiting opportunities for parents. This appeared to intensify parents' expressions of anger and protectiveness, although their anxiety remained under the surface. In response to more tangible emotional expressions, for instance, grief when the child's death was imminent, physicians provided parents helpful support in both affect- and cognition-oriented ways. CONCLUSIONS Our findings illustrate the diversity of emotions expressed by parents during end-of-life conversations. Moreover, they offer insight into the more and less helpful ways in which physicians may respond to these emotions. More training is needed to help physicians in recognizing parents' emotions, particularly implicit expressions of anxiety, and to choose helpful combinations of responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanne Prins
- Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital
| | - Annemiek J Linn
- Amsterdam School of Communication Research, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Moniek van de Loo
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Emma Children's Hospital
| | - Job B M van Woensel
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Intensive Care, Emma Children's Hospital
| | - Marc van Heerde
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Intensive Care, Emma Children's Hospital
| | | | - Martin C J Kneyber
- Pediatric Critical Care Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sinno H P Simons
- Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Sophia Children's Hospital, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Aranka A Akkermans
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen M A Smets
- Department of Medical Psychology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Laporte G, Sergerie-Richard S, Genest C, Aita M. Family Resilience as an Emerging Concept in Neonatology: Evidence From a Metasummary Review. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs 2023:00005237-990000000-00014. [PMID: 37582182 DOI: 10.1097/jpn.0000000000000761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family resilience can be observed through specific resilience-promoting processes, namely, shared belief systems, communication, and organizational processes, but the concept remains mostly unstudied in neonatology. This metasummary aims to evaluate the frequency of family resilience processes in qualitative scientific literature to illustrate how family resilience is exhibited in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) setting. METHODS A search among 4 databases yielded 7029 results, which were reviewed for inclusion. Following Sandelowski and Barroso's qualitative metasummary method, findings from each study were independently coded and frequency effect size was calculated. RESULTS Forty-six primary qualitative studies published between 2016 and 2022 conducted with parents of preterm infants who discussed their NICU hospitalization experience were included in this metasummary. All 9 of Walsh's family resilience processes were identified in the literature, and their frequency effect size ranged from 4% to 91%. Four additional themes emerged pertaining to specific family resilience behaviors exhibited by NICU families. CONCLUSION This analysis sheds new light on the most recent qualitative evidence of parents' experiences in the NICU by analyzing it through the lens of family resilience and posits family resilience as a promising concept in relation to the predominance of the family-centered care philosophy in neonatal units.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geneviève Laporte
- Faculty of Nursing, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Canada (Ms Laporte and Drs Genest and Aita); CHU Sainte-Justine Research Centre, Montreal, Canada (Ms Laporte and Dr Aita); Nursing Excellence Center, CIUSSS-EMTL, Montreal, Canada (Ms Sergerie-Richard); Centre for Research and Intervention on Suicide, Ethical Issues and End-of-Life Practices (CRISE), and Centre de recherche de l'Institut universitaire en santé mentale de Montréal (CR-IUSMM), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, Canada (Dr Genest); and Quebec Network on Nursing Intervention Research (RRISIQ), Montreal, Canada (Dr Aita)
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Lyngstad LT, Le Marechal F, Ekeberg BL, Hochnowski K, Hval M, Tandberg BS. Ten Years of Neonatal Intensive Care Adaption to the Infants' Needs: Implementation of a Family-Centered Care Model with Single-Family Rooms in Norway. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:5917. [PMID: 35627454 PMCID: PMC9140644 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Ten years ago, the Neonatal intensive care unit in Drammen, Norway, implemented Single-Family Rooms (SFR), replacing the traditional open bay (OB) unit. Welcoming parents to stay together with their infant 24 h per day, seven days per week, was both challenging and inspiring. The aim of this paper is to describe the implementation of SFR and how they have contributed to a cultural change among the interprofessional staff. Parents want to participate in infant care, but to do so, they need information and supervision from nurses, as well as emotional support. Although SFR protect infants and provide private accommodation for parents, nurses may feel isolated and lack peer support. Our paper describes how we managed to systematically reorganize the nurse's workflow by using a Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle approach. Significant milestones are identified, and the implementation processes are displayed. The continuous parental presence has changed the way we perceive the family as a care recipient and how we involve the parents in daily care. We provide visions for the future with further developments of care adapted to infants' needs by providing neonatal intensive care with parents as equal partners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lene Tandle Lyngstad
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Dronninggata 28, 3004 Drammen, Norway; (F.L.M.); (B.L.E.); (K.H.); (M.H.)
| | | | | | | | | | - Bente Silnes Tandberg
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Dronninggata 28, 3004 Drammen, Norway; (F.L.M.); (B.L.E.); (K.H.); (M.H.)
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Petty J, Whiting L, Fowler C, Green J, Mosenthal A. Exploring the knowledge of community-based nurses in supporting parents of preterm babies at home: A survey-based study. Nurs Open 2021; 9:1883-1894. [PMID: 34009710 PMCID: PMC8994940 DOI: 10.1002/nop2.937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim This study aimed to investigate the confidence levels, knowledge base and learning needs of community‐based nurses relating to the care of preterm babies and parents, to explore what education is required and in what format. Design An online survey methodology was used. Methods A 32‐item questionnaire was distributed via social media platforms to community‐based nurses in Australia. Results Descriptive analysis was undertaken relating to knowledge base, confidence levels, previous training, learning and resource needs and barriers to education. It was deemed vital to expand confidence and knowledge in this area. Gaps in learning resources were identified and a need for more training in topics such as developmental outcomes, feeding, expected milestones, weight gain, growth trajectories and supporting parents. Online resources were the preferred format to teach key knowledge to community‐based health professionals, tailored to the specific features of preterm babies and support needs of parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Petty
- Children's Nursing, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Lisa Whiting
- Children's Nursing, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | | | - Janet Green
- School of Nursing, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Alison Mosenthal
- Children's Nursing, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
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White-Traut R, Brandon D, Kavanaugh K, Gralton K, Pan W, Myers ER, Andrews B, Msall M, Norr KF. Protocol for implementation of an evidence based parentally administered intervention for preterm infants. BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:142. [PMID: 33761902 PMCID: PMC7988259 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-02596-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multi-sensory behavioral interventions for preterm infants have the potential to accelerate feeding, growth, and optimize developmental trajectories and increase parents' interactive engagement with their infants. However, few neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) provide evidence-based standardized early behavioral interventions as routine care. Lack of implementation is a major gap between research and clinical practice. H-HOPE, is a standardized behavioral intervention with an infant- directed component (Massage+) and a parent-directed component (four participatory guidance sessions that focus on preterm infants' behaviors and appropriate responses). H-HOPE has well documented efficacy. The purpose of this implementation study is to establish H-HOPE as the standard of care in 5 NICUs. METHODS The study employs a Type 3 Hybrid design to simultaneously examine the implementation process and effectiveness in five NICUs. To stagger implementation across the clinical sites, we use an incomplete stepped wedge design. The five participating NICUs were purposively selected to represent different acuity levels, number of beds, locations and populations served. Our implementation strategy integrates our experience conducting H-HOPE and a well-established implementation model, the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). The CFIR identifies influences (facilitators and barriers) that affect successful implementation within five domains: intervention characteristics, outer setting (the hospital and external events and stakeholders), inner setting (NICU), implementers' individual characteristics, and the implementation process. NICUs will use the CFIR process, which includes three phases: Planning and Engaging, Executing, and Reflecting and Evaluating. Because sustaining is a critical goal of implementation, we modify the CFIR implementation process by adding a final phase of Sustaining. DISCUSSION This study builds on the CFIR, adding Sustaining H-HOPE to observe what happens when sites begin to maintain implementation without outside support, and extends its use to the NICU acute care setting. Our mixed methods analysis systematically identifies key facilitators and barriers of implementation success and effectiveness across the five domains of the CFIR. Long term benefits have not yet been studied but may include substantial health and developmental outcomes for infants, more optimal parent-child relationships, reduced stress and costs for families, and substantial indirect societal benefits including reduced health care and special education costs. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov registration number NCT04555590 , Registered on 8/19/2020.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemary White-Traut
- Department of Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Children's Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA.
- Women, Children and Family Health Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Debra Brandon
- School of Nursing, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Karen Kavanaugh
- Department of Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Children's Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Women, Children and Family Health Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Karen Gralton
- Department of Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Children's Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Wei Pan
- School of Nursing and Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Evan R Myers
- Division of Women's Community and Population Health, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Bree Andrews
- College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Michael Msall
- College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kathleen F Norr
- Department of Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice, Children's Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
- Women, Children and Family Health Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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10
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Petty J. Using arts-based digital storytelling in neonatal care to enhance nursing students' empathy. Nurs Child Young People 2021; 33:13-18. [PMID: 33522722 DOI: 10.7748/ncyp.2021.e1351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The emotional challenges experienced by parents of infants admitted to the neonatal unit are well documented. Stories based on parents' narratives can be an effective method for nursing students to learn about parents' experiences and develop empathy for them. AIM To explore the contribution of arts-based digital storytelling based on parental experiences of neonatal care to enhancing empathy in children's nursing students. METHOD A collection of digital stories based on parental narratives were developed using the ASPIRE (aim, storyboarding, population, implementation, release, evaluation) framework. A mixed-methods approach was used to evaluate the effects of three of those digital stories, whereby 67 children's nursing students completed questionnaires and seven of them were interviewed individually about the stories. FINDINGS The mix of illustrations, animation, voice and text was well received by participants, not only aiding their learning, but also eliciting an emotional response from them. However, some aspects of the digital stories were found to hinder learning and some participants questioned the power of digital stories. Despite this, overall, the use of digital storytelling was found to be engaging, hold students' interest and enable learning via their senses. CONCLUSION Arts-based digital storytelling can convey the complexities of parents' emotional experiences in the neonatal unit, so that nursing students are better equipped to understand and empathise with them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Petty
- School of Health and Social Work, University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, England
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Petty J, Jarvis J, Thomas R. Using parent metaphors for learning about the neonatal care experience: An interpretive perspective. J Child Health Care 2020; 24:529-543. [PMID: 31514531 DOI: 10.1177/1367493519875853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study focuses on how metaphors are used by parents who have had a premature baby to describe their neonatal care experience and how these can contribute to empathic learning of health professionals. In health, metaphors are commonly used to communicate and explain difficult topics. When patients tell their story, metaphor can be a means of expression from which we can learn about their experience of illness or hospitalisation. Limited research exits on how metaphor can improve our understanding of parent's emotional experience in neonatal care and subsequently inform education in this field. Employing narrative inquiry within an interpretive, constructivist paradigm, 20 narrative interviews with 23 parents of premature babies were analysed using a process of metaphor identification. Findings revealed common metaphors used to describe experience. Metaphor clusters used by parents in order of frequency were journeying, altered reality, darkness, breaking, connections, fighting, salvation and being on the edge. Parents widely used compelling and emotive metaphors to describe and express both difficult and challenging times as well as progression forward. Metaphors serve as a powerful way for health professionals to learn about the emotional experiences of parents and potentially enhance their empathic understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Petty
- University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
| | - Joy Jarvis
- University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
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12
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Petty J, Jarvis J, Thomas R. Exploring the impact of digital stories on empathic learning in neonatal nurse education. Nurse Educ Pract 2020; 48:102853. [PMID: 32947233 DOI: 10.1016/j.nepr.2020.102853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2020] [Revised: 07/21/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Within neonatal nurse education, learning to understand the compelling emotional experiences of parents following the birth of their premature baby is essential to give person-centred empathic care. A collection of digital stories informed by parents' experiences was created to use as a pedagogical tool for students and staff within the neonatal speciality. This study reports on an exploration of the value of these digital stories for the enhancement of empathic learning. Using the principles of narrative inquiry, a mixed-methods design comprising 'point-of-view', reflective exercises, interviews and a questionnaire distributed to nursing students and practice staff ascertained views of three digital stories. The participants evaluated the digital stories positively overall and it was clear they were an effective and innovative way to learn about emotional experiences of parents. Powerful emotional messages from parents enhanced awareness, understanding and insight into their affective experience. Within the context of narrative-based neonatal education, there is a place for digital storytelling as a pedagogical strategy informed by parent narratives, to teach students and staff about the emotional impact of the neonatal care experience. In turn, this can potentially lead to more empathic, person-centred care relating to the families of sick, vulnerable babies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Petty
- University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL109AB, UK.
| | - Joy Jarvis
- University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, AL109AB, UK
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13
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Porter L, van Heugten K, Champion P. The risk of low risk: First time motherhood, prematurity and dyadic well-being. Infant Ment Health J 2020; 41:836-849. [PMID: 32573015 DOI: 10.1002/imhj.21875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Premature birth has a well-documented impact on infants, mothers and their dyadic interactions. First time motherhood in the context of low risk premature birth-relatively unexplored in the literature-is a specific experience that sits at the nexus of premature infancy, motherhood and the processes that underpin dyadic connection. This qualitative study analyzed semistructured interviews with first time mothers of low risk premature babies. Findings were generated in response to research questions concerning mothers' meaning-making, bonding and identity. Findings demonstrated that maternal meaning-making emerged from a dyadic framework. When mothers or their infants were considered outside of a dyadic context, surplus suffering inadvertently occurred. Findings have important implications for infant mental health practice in medical settings, for postnatal support in the aftermath of premature birth, and for understanding the meaning of risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Porter
- Student Health and Counselling, Massey University, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Kate van Heugten
- Human Services and Social Work, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Patricia Champion
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand
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Abstract
Babies born at the limit of viability have a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Despite great advances in science, the approach to these newborns remains challenging. Thus, this study reviewed the literature regarding the treatment of newborns at the limit of viability. There are several interventions that can be applied before and after birth to increase the baby's survival with the least sequelae possible, but different countries make different recommendations on the gestational age that each treatment should be given. There is more consensus on the extremities of viability, being that, at the lower extremity, comfort care is preferred and active care in newborns with higher gestational age. The higher the gestational age at birth, the higher the survival and survival without morbidity rates. At all gestational ages, it is important to take into account the suffering of these babies and to provide them the best quality of life possible. Sometimes palliative care is the best therapeutic approach. The parents of these babies should be included in the decision-making process, if they wish, always respecting their needs and wishes. Nevertheless, the process of having such an immature child can be very painful for parents, so it is also important to take into account their suffering and provide them with all the necessary support. This support should be maintained even after the death of the newborn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Lemos
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal -
| | - Henrique Soares
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Pediatrics, São João University Hospital, Porto, Portugal
| | - Hercília Guimarães
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Department of Pediatrics, São João University Hospital, Porto, Portugal.,Unit of Cardiovascular Research and Development, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Petty J, Whiting L, Mosenthal A, Fowler C, Elliott D, Green J. The knowledge and learning needs of health professionals in providing support for parents of premature babies at home: A mixed-methods study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnn.2019.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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