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Trześniowska A, Wagner E, Ściseł A, Szymańska K, Szyprowski K, Kimber-Trojnar Ż. Did the COVID-19 Pandemic Affect the Stress Levels among the Mothers of Premature Infants? A Narrative Review of the Present State of Knowledge, Prevention Strategies, and Future Directions. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:1095. [PMID: 39200705 PMCID: PMC11353938 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21081095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024]
Abstract
Understanding COVID-19's effects on susceptible populations remains essential for clinical implementations. Our review aimed to examine whether the pandemic significantly impacted the stress levels in the mothers of premature infants in NICUs. The review of the literature from Google Scholar and PubMed resulted in identifying specific stressors such as the disruption of healthcare systems, limited access to neonatal care, uncertainty due to frequent changes in restrictions, the risk of COVID-19 infection, social isolation, and financial stress. While some quantitative studies concerning this topic did not show a significant increase in the perception of stress in this population compared to the pre-pandemic group, various research has indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic may result in enduring impacts on the emotional and neurological development of children. This article demonstrates a correlation between the repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic and an elevated incidence of depressive symptoms among the mothers of premature infants. Further studies are needed to assess the long-term impact of pandemic-induced stress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emilia Wagner
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.T.); (A.Ś.); (K.S.); (K.S.)
| | | | | | | | - Żaneta Kimber-Trojnar
- Chair and Department of Obstetrics and Perinatology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-090 Lublin, Poland; (A.T.); (A.Ś.); (K.S.); (K.S.)
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Musters SC, Coolen CM, Jongerden IP, Schijven MP, Maaskant JM, Eskes AM. Experiences of healthcare professionals, patients and families with video calls to stimulate patient- and family-centred care during hospitalization: A scoping review. J Clin Nurs 2024; 33:3429-3467. [PMID: 38597356 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.17155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
AIM To synthesize the literature on the experiences of patients, families and healthcare professionals with video calls during hospital admission. Second, to investigate facilitators and barriers of implementation of video calls in hospital wards. DESIGN Scoping review. METHODS PubMed, CINAHL and Google Scholar were searched for relevant publications in the period between 2011 and 2023. Publications were selected if they focused on experiences of patients, families or healthcare professionals with video calls between patients and their families; or between families of hospitalized patients and healthcare professionals. Quantitative and qualitative data were summarized in data charting forms. RESULTS Forty-three studies were included. Patients and families were satisfied with video calls as it facilitated daily communication. Family members felt more engaged and felt they could provide support to their loved ones during admission. Healthcare professionals experienced video calls as an effective way to communicate when in-person visits were not allowed. However, they felt that video calls were emotionally difficult as it was hard to provide support at distance and to use communication skills effectively. Assigning local champions and training of healthcare professionals were identified as facilitators for implementation. Technical issues and increased workload were mentioned as main barriers. CONCLUSION Patients, families and healthcare professionals consider video calls as a good alternative when in-person visits are not allowed. Healthcare professionals experience more hesitation towards video calls during admission, as it increases perceived workload. In addition, they are uncertain whether video calls are as effective as in-person conservations. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE CLINICAL PRACTICE When implementing video calls in hospital wards, policymakers and healthcare professionals should select strategies that address the positive aspects of family involvement at distance and the use of digital communication skills. PATIENT CONTRIBUTION No patient or public contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selma C Musters
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Celeste M Coolen
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Irene P Jongerden
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC Location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marlies P Schijven
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology Endocrinology Metabolism, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jolanda M Maaskant
- Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Anne M Eskes
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cancer Treatment and Quality of Life, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Health, Center of Expertise Urban Vitality, Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Xie EB, Jung JW, Kaur J, Benzies KM, Tomfohr-Madsen L, Keys E. Digital Parenting Interventions for Fathers of Infants From Conception to the Age of 12 Months: Systematic Review of Mixed Methods Studies. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e43219. [PMID: 37494086 PMCID: PMC10413237 DOI: 10.2196/43219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital interventions help address barriers to traditional health care services. Fathers play an important parenting role in their families, and their involvement is beneficial for family well-being. Although digital interventions are a promising avenue to facilitate father involvement during the perinatal period, most are oriented toward maternal needs and do not address the unique needs of fathers. OBJECTIVE This systematic review describes the digital interventions that exist or are currently being developed for fathers of infants from conception to 12 months postpartum. METHODS A systematic search of the MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase (using Ovid), and CINAHL (using EBSCO) databases was conducted to identify articles from database inception to June 2022, of which 39 met the inclusion criteria. Articles were included if they were peer-reviewed and described a digital intervention that targeted fathers of fetuses or infants aged ≤12 months. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and opinion pieces were excluded. Data from these studies were extracted and themed using a narrative synthesis approach. Quality appraisal of the articles was conducted using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. RESULTS A total of 2816 articles were retrieved, of which 39 (1.38%) met the inclusion criteria for eligibility after removing duplicates and screening. Eligible articles included 29 different interventions across 13 countries. Most articles (22/29, 76%) described interventions that were exclusively digital. There were a variety of digital modalities, but interventions were most commonly designed to be delivered via a website or web-based portal (14/29, 48%). Just over half (21/39, 54%) of the articles described interventions designed to be delivered from pregnancy through the postpartum period. Only 26% (10/39) of the studies targeted fathers exclusively. A wide range of outcomes were included, with 54% (21/39) of the studies including a primary outcome related to intervention feasibility. Qualitative and mixed methods studies reported generally positive experiences with digital interventions and qualitative themes of the importance of providing support to partners, improving parenting confidence, and normalization of stress were identified. Of the 18 studies primarily examining efficacy outcomes, 13 (72%) reported a statistically significant intervention effect. The studies exhibited a moderate quality level overall. CONCLUSIONS New and expecting fathers use digital technologies, which could be used to help address father-specific barriers to traditional health care services. However, in contrast to the current state of digital interventions for mothers, father-focused interventions lack evaluation and evidence. Among the existing studies on digital interventions for fathers, there seem to be mixed findings regarding their feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy. There is a need for more development and standardized evaluation of interventions that target father-identified priorities. This review was limited by not assessing equity-oriented outcomes (eg, race and socioeconomic status), which should also be considered in future intervention development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - James Wonkyu Jung
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jasleen Kaur
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Karen M Benzies
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Lianne Tomfohr-Madsen
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, and Special Education, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Keys
- Faculty of Nursing, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
- School of Nursing, The University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, 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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Riskin A, Shlezinger S, Yonai L, Mor F, Partom L, Monacis-Winkler E, Odler K, Goroshko M, Gover A. Improving Communication with Parents in the NICU during the COVID-19 Pandemic, a Study and Review of the Literature. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:1739. [PMID: 36421187 PMCID: PMC9688796 DOI: 10.3390/children9111739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Communication with parents of sick premature and term infants in the NICU is complicated and challenging. Multiple efforts have been made to improve it, including the introduction of new electronic-based measures. AIM We aimed to study the influence of implementation of a new communication technology on parents' satisfaction with care in the NICU during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Infants were video-recorded in their incubators or cots without being disturbed. These short films, with voice updates on the infant's condition, were sent on a daily basis to their parents via a WhatsApp application. RESULTS Parents who chose to join the new communication project (study group) were older, and their infants were more premature. Parents were satisfied with this new communication modality. Satisfaction scores in both study and control groups were high, but not significantly different. CONCLUSIONS Although the implementation of the new communication project was successful, we could not demonstrate significant improvement in satisfaction scores that were high in study and control groups, reflecting baseline high satisfaction. Further studies are needed employing other assessment tools in order to evaluate other aspects of parents' satisfaction with new modalities of communication introduced to the NICU, and their effects on parents' bonding with their infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arieh Riskin
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb Street, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 31048, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion—Israel Institute of Technology, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 32000, Israel
| | - Shlomit Shlezinger
- Department of Pediatrics, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb Street, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Lital Yonai
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb Street, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Frida Mor
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb Street, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Limor Partom
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb Street, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Elinor Monacis-Winkler
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb Street, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Keren Odler
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb Street, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Maria Goroshko
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb Street, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 31048, Israel
| | - Ayala Gover
- Department of Neonatology, Bnai Zion Medical Center, 47 Golomb Street, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 31048, Israel
- Rappaport Faculty of Medicine, Technion—Israel Institute of Technology, P.O. Box 4940, Haifa 32000, Israel
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Dall’Oglio I, Mascolo R, Portanova A, Ragni A, Amadio P, Fiori M, Tofani M, Gawronski O, Piga S, Rocco G, Tiozzo E, Latour JM. Staff Perceptions of Family-Centered Care in Italian Neonatal Intensive Care Units: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9091401. [PMID: 36138710 PMCID: PMC9498145 DOI: 10.3390/children9091401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Family Centered Care (FCC) in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) included family involvement in the care process of newborns and infants. Staff perceptions of FCC may influence clinical practice and management strategies in NICUs, with an impact on quality and humanization of the care. The Family-Centred Care Questionnaire-Revised (FCCQ-R) was adapted for the NICU setting, therefore the FCCQ-R@it-NICU was developed and used for the present study in 32 Italian NICUs. We calculated internal consistency using Cronbach’s alpha correlation between Current and Necessary dimensions of the scale using the Pearson correlation coefficient. Furthermore, we investigated which characteristics could influence staff perceptions of FCC in NICUs. 921 NICU professionals participated in the study. The FCCQ-R@it-NICU revealed good internal consistency (0.96) and good correlation between dimensions (p < 0.05). Statistical and significant differences in Current and Necessary dimensions were found and some demographic characteristics were found predictable on FCC practice. The FCCQ-R@it-NICU is a valid tool to investigate staff perceptions about FCC in NICU settings. Profession, education level and work experience seem to positively influence the perception of what is required for FCC practice within NICUs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Immacolata Dall’Oglio
- Professional Development, Continuing Education and Research Service, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Rachele Mascolo
- Semi-Intensive Care Area/Unit, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Anna Portanova
- Neonatal Surgery Unit, Medical and Surgical Department of the Fetus-Newborn-Infant, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Angela Ragni
- Neonatal Surgery Unit, Medical and Surgical Department of the Fetus-Newborn-Infant, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Amadio
- Neonatal Surgery Unit, Medical and Surgical Department of the Fetus-Newborn-Infant, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Fiori
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Marco Tofani
- Professional Development, Continuing Education and Research Service, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Orsola Gawronski
- Professional Development, Continuing Education and Research Service, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Simone Piga
- Unit of Epidemiology, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Rocco
- Centre of Excellence for Nursing Scholarship of Nursing Professional Order, Rome Nursing College, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuela Tiozzo
- Professional Development, Continuing Education and Research Service, Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital, IRCCS, 00165 Rome, Italy
| | - Jos M. Latour
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, WA 6102 Perth, Australia
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