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Tilahun BD, Yilak G, Amena N, Abate BB, Fantahun A, Deribe L. Uncertainty associated with parents of preterm infants hospitalised in neonatal intensive care unit among selected governmental hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2022: an institution-based cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e076749. [PMID: 38417957 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-076749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the uncertainty associated with parents of preterm infants hospitalised in neonatal intensive care units of selected governmental hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 2022. DESIGN A cross-sectional study conducted from 3 March 2022 to 30 March 2022. SETTING The research was conducted at a government hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. PARTICIPANTS Out of 305 eligible participants, 303 were parents of preterm infants' participants with complete data. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE Levels of parental uncertainty, assessed by using the Mishel scale of uncertainty. Simple and multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to assess associations between variables. RESULTS The mean uncertainty expressed by parents was 101.3 (SD=21.12). There were significant associations found with various factors. The sex of the respondent fathers (β=-4.65, 95% CI -9.32 to -0.025), length of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay >10 days (β=14.64, 95% CI 8.71 to 20.56), gestational week between 34 and 37 weeks (β=-7.47, 95% CI -11.42 to -3.52), parents with college degrees and above (β=-14.15, 95% CI -22.94 to -5.34), parents with neonates who were preterm and had neonatal sepsis (β=10.42, 95% CI -17.57 to -3.27), parents without a history of neonatal NICU admission (β=-6.16, 95% CI -11.69 to -0.63) and parents who were housewives (β=6.51, 95% CI 1.83 to 12.19) all showed significant associations. CONCLUSION Factors like educational status, gestational week, neonatal admission history and NICU stay length contribute to parental uncertainty. Promoting empathy and clear communication is crucial. Hospitals should develop compassionate protocols for information delivery, including regular updates and effective addressing of concerns. Fostering a supportive environment helps parents express emotions and seek support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Befkad Derese Tilahun
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Gizachew Yilak
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Nimona Amena
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Biruk Beletew Abate
- Department of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Addishiwet Fantahun
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Science, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Leul Deribe
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Science, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Forth FA, Hammerle F, König J, Urschitz MS, Neuweiler P, Mildenberger E, Kidszun A. Optimistic vs Pessimistic Message Framing in Communicating Prognosis to Parents of Very Preterm Infants: The COPE Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Netw Open 2024; 7:e240105. [PMID: 38393728 PMCID: PMC10891472 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.0105] [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] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Importance In the neonatal intensive care unit, there is a lack of understanding about how best to communicate the prognosis of a serious complication to parents. Objective To examine parental preferences and the effects of optimistic vs pessimistic message framing when providing prognostic information about a serious complication. Design, Setting, and Participants This crossover randomized clinical trial was conducted at a single German university medical center between June and October 2021. Eligible participants were parents of surviving preterm infants with a birth weight under 1500 g. Data were analyzed between October 2021 and August 2022. Interventions Alternating exposure to 2 scripted video vignettes showing a standardized conversation between a neonatologist and parents, portrayed by professional actors, about the prognosis of a hypothetical very preterm infant with severe intraventricular hemorrhage. The video vignettes differed in the framing of identical numerical outcome estimates as either probability of survival and probability of nonimpairment (optimistic framing) or a risk of death and impaired survival (pessimistic framing). Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was preference odds (ratio of preference for optimistic vs pessimistic framing). Secondary outcomes included state anxiety, perceptions of communication, and recall of numerical estimates. Results Of 220 enrolled parents (142 [64.5%] mothers; mean [SD] age: mothers, 39.1 [5.6] years; fathers, 42.7 [6.9] years), 196 (89.1%) preferred optimistic and 24 (10.1%) preferred pessimistic framing (preference odds, 11.0; 95% CI, 6.28-19.10; P < .001). Preference for optimistic framing was more pronounced when presented second than when presented first (preference odds, 5.41; 95% CI, 1.77-16.48; P = .003). State anxiety scores were similar in both groups at baseline (mean difference, -0.34; -1.18 to 0.49; P = .42) and increased equally after the first video (mean difference, -0.55; 95% CI, -1.79 to 0.69; P = .39). After the second video, state anxiety scores decreased when optimistic framing followed pessimistic framing but remained unchanged when pessimistic framing followed optimistic framing (mean difference, 2.15; 95% CI, 0.91 to 3.39; P < .001). With optimistic framing, participants recalled numerical estimates more accurately for survival (odds ratio, 4.00; 95% CI, 1.64-9.79; P = .002) but not for impairment (odds ratio, 1.50; 95% CI, 0.85-2.63; P = .16). Conclusions and Relevance When given prognostic information about a serious complication, parents of very preterm infants may prefer optimistic framing. Optimistic framing may lead to more realistic expectations for survival, but not for impairment. Trial Registration German Clinical Trials Register (DRKS): DRKS00024466.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona A. Forth
- Division of Neonatology, Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Florian Hammerle
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jochem König
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology, Institute for Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael S. Urschitz
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology, Institute for Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Philipp Neuweiler
- Journalistisches Seminar, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Eva Mildenberger
- Division of Neonatology, Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - André Kidszun
- Division of Neonatology, Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Mainz, Germany
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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3
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Callahan KP, Kielt MJ, Feudtner C, Barkman D, Bamat N, Fierro J, Fiest E, DeMauro SB. Ranking Future Outcomes Most Important to Parents of Children with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia. J Pediatr 2023; 259:113455. [PMID: 37172804 PMCID: PMC10524943 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2023.113455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess which potential future outcomes are most important to parents of children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, a disease that affects future respiratory, medical, and developmental outcomes for children born preterm. STUDY DESIGN We recruited parents from 2 children's hospitals' neonatal follow-up clinics and elicited their importance rating for 20 different potential future outcomes associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. These outcomes were identified and selected through a literature review and discussions with panels of parents and clinician stakeholders, via a discrete choice experiment. RESULTS One hundred and 5 parents participated. Overall, parents ranked "Will my child be more vulnerable to other problems because of having lung disease?" as the most important outcome, with other respiratory health related outcomes also highly ranked. Outcomes related to child development and effects on the family were among the lowest ranked. Individually, parents rated outcomes differently, resulting in a broad distribution of importance scores for many of the outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The overall rankings suggest that parents prioritize future outcomes related to physical health and safety. Notably, for guiding research, some top-rated outcomes are not traditionally measured in outcome studies. For guiding individual counseling, the broad distribution of importance scores for many outcomes highlights the extent to which parents differ in their prioritization of outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine Press Callahan
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia; Philadelphia, PA; Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA.
| | | | - Chris Feudtner
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia; Philadelphia, PA; Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania; Philadelphia, PA
| | | | - Nicolas Bamat
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia; Philadelphia, PA
| | - Julie Fierro
- Children's Hospital of Philadelphia; Philadelphia, PA
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Abayneh M, Rent S, Ubuane PO, Carter BS, Deribessa SJ, Kassa BB, Tekleab AM, Kukora SK. Perinatal palliative care in sub-Saharan Africa: recommendations for practice, future research, and guideline development. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1217209. [PMID: 37435165 PMCID: PMC10331424 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1217209] [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: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Worldwide, sub-Saharan Africa has the highest burden of global neonatal mortality (43%) and neonatal mortality rate (NMR): 27 deaths per 1,000 live births. The WHO recognizes palliative care (PC) as an integral, yet underutilized, component of perinatal care for pregnancies at risk of stillbirth or early neonatal death, and for neonates with severe prematurity, birth trauma or congenital anomalies. Despite bearing a disproportionate burden of neonatal mortality, many strategies to care for dying newborns and support their families employed in high-income countries (HICs) are not available in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). Many institutions and professional societies in LMICs lack guidelines or recommendations to standardize care, and existing guidelines may have limited adherence due to lack of space, equipment, supplies, trained professionals, and high patient load. In this narrative review, we compare perinatal/neonatal PC in HICs and LMICs in sub-Saharan Africa to identify key areas for future, research-informed, interventions that might be tailored to the local sociocultural contexts and propose actionable recommendations for these resource-deprived environments that may support clinical care and inform future professional guideline development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahlet Abayneh
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Sharla Rent
- Duke Department of Pediatrics, Duke School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Duke Global Health Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Peter Odion Ubuane
- Department of Pediatrics, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Brian S. Carter
- Division of Neonatology and Bioethics Center, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO, United States
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Medical Humanities and Bioethics, Universityof Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, United States
| | - Solomie Jebessa Deribessa
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Betelehem B. Kassa
- College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Atnafu Mekonnen Tekleab
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, St Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Stephanie K. Kukora
- Division of Neonatology and Bioethics Center, Children’s Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO, United States
- Department of Pediatrics and Department of Medical Humanities and Bioethics, Universityof Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Kansas City, MO, United States
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5
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McDonnell SM, Basir MA, Yan K, Liegl MN, Windschitl PD. Effect of Presenting Survival Information as Text or Pictograph During Periviable Birth Counseling: A Randomized, Controlled Trial. J Pediatr 2023; 257:113382. [PMID: 36894129 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2023.02.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine whether presenting a 30% or a 60% chance of survival in different survival information formats would influence hypothetical periviable birth treatment choice and whether treatment choice would be associated with participants' recall or their intuitive beliefs about the chances of survival. STUDY DESIGN An internet sample of women (n = 1052) were randomized to view a vignette with either a 30% or 60% chance of survival with intensive care during the periviable period. Participants were randomized to survival information presented as text-only, in a static pictograph, or in an iterative pictograph. Participants chose intensive care or palliative care and reported their recall of the chance of survival and their intuitive beliefs about their infant's chance of survival. RESULTS There was no difference in treatment choice by presentation with a 30% vs 60% chance of survival (P = .48), by survival information format (P = .80), or their interaction (P = .18). However, participants' intuitive beliefs about chance of survival significantly predicted treatment choice (P < .001) and had the most explanatory power of any participant characteristic. Intuitive beliefs were optimistic and did not differ by presentation of a 30% or 60% chance of survival (P = .65), even among those with accurate recall of the chance of survival (P = .09). CONCLUSIONS Physicians should recognize that parents may use more than outcome data to make treatment choices and in forming their own, often-optimistic, intuitive beliefs about their infant's chance of survival. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04859114.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mir A Basir
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI.
| | - Ke Yan
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Melodee Nugent Liegl
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI
| | - Paul D Windschitl
- Department of Psychological & Brain Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA
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6
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Chevallier M, Barrington KJ, Terrien Church P, Luu TM, Janvier A. Decision-making for extremely preterm infants with severe hemorrhages on head ultrasound: Science, values, and communication skills. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2023; 28:101444. [PMID: 37150640 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2023.101444] [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] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Severe intracranial hemorrhages are not rare in extremely preterm infants. They occur early, generally when babies require life-sustaining interventions. This may lead to ethical discussions and decision-making about levels of care. Prognosis is variable and depends on the extent, location, and laterality of the lesions, and, importantly also on the subsequent occurrence of other clinical complications or progressive ventricular dilatation. Decision-making should depend on prognosis and parental values. This article will review prognosis and the uncertainty of outcomes for different lesions and provide an outline of ways to conduct an ethically appropriate discussion on the decision of whether to continue life sustaining therapy. It is possible to communicate in a compassionate and honest way with parents and engage in decision-making, focussing on personalized information and decisions, and on function, as opposed to diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Chevallier
- Department of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, CHU Grenoble, Grenoble, France; TIMC-IMAG Research Department; Grenoble Alps University; Grenoble, France
| | - K J Barrington
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; Division of Neonatology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada; Centre de Recherche Du CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - P Terrien Church
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - T M Luu
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; Centre de Recherche Du CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - A Janvier
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; Division of Neonatology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada; Centre de Recherche Du CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Bureau de L'éthique Clinique, Université de Montréal, Canada; Unité D'éthique Clinique, Unité de Soins Palliatifs, Bureau Du Partenariat Patients-Familles-Soignants; CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada.
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7
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Mueller R, Lee BM, Callahan KP. Managing Prognosis in Precision Medicine: Utility, Imagination, and Communication. CHILDREN 2023; 10:children10040664. [PMID: 37189913 DOI: 10.3390/children10040664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Research on how physicians predict and communicate prognosis focuses primarily on end-of-life care. Unsurprisingly, as genomic technology gains traction as a prognostic tool, the focus has also been on terminality, with research focused on how genetic results may be used to terminate pregnancies or redirect care towards palliation for neonates. However, genomic results also have powerful impacts on how patients who live prepare for their futures. Genomic testing provides broad-reaching and early—albeit complex, uncertain, and shifting—prognostic information. In this essay, we argue that as genomic testing occurs earlier and increasingly in a screening context, researchers and clinicians must strive to understand and manage the prognostic implications of results. While our understanding of the psychosocial and communicational aspects of prognosis in symptomatic populations is incomplete, it has progressed further than our understanding in a screening context and therefore provides useful lessons and feasible opportunities for further research. By providing an interdisciplinary and inter-specialty perspective on the psychosocial and communicational aspects of prognosis in genetics, we discuss prognostication with respect to genetics from the neonatal period through adulthood, highlighting medical specialties and patient populations that are especially informative for considering the longitudinal management of prognostic information in genomic medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Mueller
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Masters Genetic Counseling Program, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Brittany M. Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- Seattle Children’s Research Institute, Seattle, WA 98101, USA
| | - Katharine Press Callahan
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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8
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Tsui WK, Yip KH, Yip YC. Heartbreak and Loneliness Due to Family Separations and Limited Visiting during COVID-19: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1633. [PMID: 36674384 PMCID: PMC9861520 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021633] [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: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted the healthcare system. In the pediatric unit, stress, uncertainty, and many unexpected challenges for many parents were frequently reported. Research has shown that parents had less contact with their children during the pandemic due to hospital restrictions. However, it is unknown how parents perceived their experiences in a pediatric unit. This study aimed to describe the lived experiences of parents who had a child in the pediatric unit during the pandemic. A qualitative descriptive approach was used to investigate parents' experiences of having children admitted to the pediatric unit during the pandemic in Hong Kong. Eight Chinese parents participated in the interview. Three major themes emerged: (1) parents' pediatric ward experiences during COVID-19 were emotionally isolating and overwhelming, (2) the family and family-centered care were disrupted, and (3) interactions with pediatric providers intensified or alleviated emotional distress. Integrating the above themes of experiences of emotional distress was the main characteristic of the parents' experiences during the pandemic. Therefore, policymakers should understand the lived experiences of parents of children diagnosed with COVID-19 and should make prompt decisions to deal with both parental concerns and safety issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai-King Tsui
- School of Health Sciences, Caritas Institute of Higher Education, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ka-Huen Yip
- School of Health Sciences, Caritas Institute of Higher Education, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yuk-Chiu Yip
- Li Ka Shing School of Professional and Continuing Education, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong, China
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Kubicka Z, Fiascone J, Williams D, Zahr E, Ditzel A, Perry D, Rousseau T, Lacy M, Arzuaga B. Implementing modified family integrated care in a U.S. neonatal intensive care unit: nursing perspectives and effects on parents. J Perinatol 2023; 43:503-509. [PMID: 36627393 PMCID: PMC9838294 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-023-01601-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES (1) Assess effects of a modified Family Integrated Care (FICare) model on U.S. Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) parents; (2) Evaluate NICU nurses' perspectives. DESIGN Case -control design with parental stress assessed before and after NICU-wide FICare implementation using Parent Stressor Scale: NICU (PSS:NICU) questionnaire. In addition, stratification by degree of participation evaluated associations with parental stress, parental-staff communication and discharge readiness. Questionnaires captured nursing perspectives on FICare. RESULTS 79 parents (88%) participated prior to FICare; 90 (90%) after. Parent stress was lower (p < 0.001) with FICare. Parents learning 5-15 infant-care skills had lower stress compared to those learning <5 (p = 0.008). Parent utilization of an educational app was associated with improved communication frequency (p = 0.007) and quality (p = 0.012). Bedside NICU nurses reported multiple positive associations of FICare for parents and staff. CONCLUSIONS Any degree of FICare participation decreases parental stress; increased participation has multiple positive associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzanna Kubicka
- Department of Pediatrics, South Shore Hospital, Weymouth, MA, USA. .,Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - John Fiascone
- grid.430496.c0000 0004 0382 3942Department of Pediatrics, South Shore Hospital, Weymouth, MA USA ,grid.2515.30000 0004 0378 8438Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - David Williams
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XHarvard Medical School, Boston, MA USA ,grid.2515.30000 0004 0378 8438Institutional Centers for Clinical and Translational Studies, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Eyad Zahr
- grid.430496.c0000 0004 0382 3942Department of Pediatrics, South Shore Hospital, Weymouth, MA USA ,grid.2515.30000 0004 0378 8438Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Amy Ditzel
- grid.430496.c0000 0004 0382 3942Department of Pediatrics, South Shore Hospital, Weymouth, MA USA ,grid.2515.30000 0004 0378 8438Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Diana Perry
- grid.430496.c0000 0004 0382 3942Department of Pediatrics, South Shore Hospital, Weymouth, MA USA ,grid.2515.30000 0004 0378 8438Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Tamara Rousseau
- grid.430496.c0000 0004 0382 3942Department of Pediatrics, South Shore Hospital, Weymouth, MA USA ,grid.2515.30000 0004 0378 8438Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Molly Lacy
- grid.430496.c0000 0004 0382 3942Department of Pediatrics, South Shore Hospital, Weymouth, MA USA ,grid.2515.30000 0004 0378 8438Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
| | - Bonnie Arzuaga
- grid.430496.c0000 0004 0382 3942Department of Pediatrics, South Shore Hospital, Weymouth, MA USA ,grid.2515.30000 0004 0378 8438Division of Newborn Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA USA
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10
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Bueno M. Peer-to-peer support in the neonatal intensive care unit may improve parents' experiences with their hospitalised infant. Evid Based Nurs 2023; 26:18. [PMID: 35896414 DOI: 10.1136/ebnurs-2022-103526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Bueno
- The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Grunberg VA, Geller PA, Hoffman C, Patterson CA. A biopsychosocial model of NICU family adjustment and child development. J Perinatol 2022; 43:510-517. [PMID: 36550281 PMCID: PMC10148647 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-022-01585-1] [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] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although infants in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) are at risk for developmental impairments and parents are at risk for emotional distress, factors that explain outcomes remain unknown. Here, we developed the first biopsychosocial model to explain family adjustment after NICU discharge. METHODS Participants included 101 families at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Neonatal Follow-Up Program who had been discharged 1.5-2.5 years prior. We gathered data using validated assessments, standardized assessments, and electronic medical records. RESULTS Our structural equation model, informed by the Double ABC-X Model, captured the dynamic relationships among infant, parent, couple, and family factors. Infant medical severity, posttraumatic stress, couple functioning, and family resources (e.g., time, money) were key for family adjustment and child development. CONCLUSIONS Interventions that target parental posttraumatic stress, couple dynamics, parental perception of time for themselves, and access to financial support could be key for improving NICU family outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria A Grunberg
- Center for Health Outcomes and Interdisciplinary Research, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. .,Division of Newborn Medicine, MassGeneral for Children, Boston, MA, USA. .,Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Pamela A Geller
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Casey Hoffman
- Division of Neonatology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Chavis A Patterson
- Division of Neonatology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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12
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Petersson MÅ, Benzein E, Massoudi P, Wåhlin I, Persson C. Parents' experiences of the significance of interpersonal interactions for becoming parents and a family during neonatal intensive care. J Pediatr Nurs 2022; 69:e1-e6. [PMID: 36481222 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2022.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe parents' experiences of the significance of interpersonal interactions for becoming parents and a family during neonatal intensive care. DESIGN AND METHODS We employed a qualitative descriptive design with semi-structured family interviews. Ten families were included from four neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in Sweden. Results were evaluated using thematic analysis. RESULTS The results were presented as two themes: 1) Interactions within the family, and 2) Interactions between parents and staff. Analyses revealed that interpersonal interactions could both facilitate and hinder development in becoming a parent and a family. CONCLUSION Interactions within the family and with the staff have an important function in the process of becoming a parent and a family. This process would benefit from a systemic approach, focusing on the family as a unit, as unique individuals, and as parents with unique needs and experiences. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Our findings can facilitate changes to reduce the separation between family members (mother-father-newborn-siblings) during their stay in NICU; guiding parents to take care of their child, while being sensitive and balancing their situation as to where they are in their process; supporting the family through joint conversations by listening to the parents and their expectations and experiences both in the NICU and at home; and encouraging parents to do everyday things together outside NICU like an ordinary family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Åberg Petersson
- Clinical Training Center, Region Kalmar County, Kalmar, Sweden; School of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Kalmar, Sweden.
| | - Eva Benzein
- School of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Pamela Massoudi
- Department of Research and Development, Region Kronoberg, Sweden; Department of Psychology, University of Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Wåhlin
- School of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Kalmar, Sweden; Research section, Region Kalmar County, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Carina Persson
- School of Health and Caring Sciences, Linnaeus University, Växjö, Kalmar, Sweden
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13
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Thivierge E, Luu TM, Bourque CJ, Duquette LA, Pearce R, Jaworski M, Barrington KJ, Synnes A, Janvier A. Guilt and Regret Experienced by Parents of Children Born Extremely Preterm. J Pediatr 2022:S0022-3476(22)01019-8. [PMID: 36463935 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.10.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore decisional regret of parents of babies born extremely preterm and analyze neonatal, pediatric, and parental factors associated with regret. STUDY DESIGN Parents of infants born <29 weeks of gestational age, aged between 18 months and 7 years, attending neonatal follow-up were enrolled. Hospital records were reviewed to examine morbidities and conversations with parents about levels of care. Parents were asked the following question: "Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently?" Mixed methods were used to analyze responses. RESULTS In total, 248 parents (98% participation) answered, and 54% reported they did not have regret. Of those who reported regret (n = 113), 3 themes were most frequently invoked: 35% experienced guilt, thinking they were responsible for the preterm birth; 28% experienced regret about self-care decisions; and 20% regretted decisions related to their parental role, generally wishing they knew sooner how to get involved. None reported regret about life-and-death decisions made at birth or in the neonatal intensive care unit. Impairment at follow-up, gestational age, and decisions about levels/reorientation of care were not associated with regret. More mothers reported feeling guilt about the preterm birth (compared with fathers); parents of children with severe lesions on ultrasonography of the head were less likely to report regret. CONCLUSIONS Approximately one-half of the parents of infants born extremely preterm had regrets regarding their neonatal intensive care unit stay. Causes of regret and guilt should be addressed and minimized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Thivierge
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada
| | - Thuy Mai Luu
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Canada
| | - Claude Julie Bourque
- CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Canada; Unité d'éthique clinique, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada; Centre d'excellence en éthique clinique, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada
| | | | - Rebecca Pearce
- Canadian Premature Baby Foundation, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Magdalena Jaworski
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; Unité d'éthique clinique, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada
| | - Keith J Barrington
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Canada
| | - Anne Synnes
- Department of Pediatrics, BC Women's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Annie Janvier
- Department of Pediatrics, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Sainte-Justine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, Montréal, Canada; Centre d'excellence en éthique clinique, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada; Bureau de l'éthique Clinique, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada; Unité de soins palliatifs, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada.
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14
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Lin M, Sayeed S, DeCourcey DD, Wolfe J, Cummings C. The Case for Advance Care Planning in the NICU. Pediatrics 2022; 150:189893. [PMID: 36321383 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-057824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Many NICUs have reached an inflection point where infant deaths following limitation of life-sustaining treatments outnumber those following unsuccessful resuscitations, and many infants who survive continue to require intensive supports. Families of such infants with serious illness may benefit from a standardized, process-oriented approach in decisional-support. Advance care planning (ACP), or communication that supports patients, or their surrogate decision-makers, in sharing values, goals, and preferences for future medical care, is recognized as a valuable strategy in supporting adults with serious and chronic illness. Although the role of ACP in older children and adolescents is evolving, its utility has not been systematically explored in the perinatal context. This article builds a case for formalizing a role for ACP in the NICU by defining ACP and appraising recent outcomes research, reviewing the current state of parental needs for decisional support and serious illness in the NICU, and describing how ACP may address current limitations in primary and specialty pediatric palliative care and challenges for decision-making in the newborn period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Lin
- Pediatric Palliative Care Program, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | | | | | - Joanne Wolfe
- Departments of Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care and Pediatrics, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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15
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Krick JA, Feltman DM, Arnolds M. Decision-Making for Extremely Preterm Infants: A Qualitative Systematic Review. J Pediatr 2022; 251:6-16. [PMID: 35940293 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2022.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To synthesize and describe important elements of decision-making during antenatal consultation for threatened preterm delivery at the margin of gestational viability. STUDY DESIGN Data sources including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and CINAHL Plus were searched. We included all qualitative literature published on decision-making from 1990 to July 2021. Two authors independently screened and evaluated each study using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist; studies reaching moderate and high quality were included. We developed an extraction tool to collect and categorize data from each qualitative article, then used thematic analysis to analyze and describe the findings. RESULTS Twenty-five articles incorporating the views of 504 providers and 352 parents were included for final review. Thematic analysis revealed 4 main themes describing the experience of health care providers and parents participating in decision-making: factors that influence decision-making, information sharing, building a partnership, and making the decision. Parents and providers were not always in agreement upon which elements were most essential to the process of decision-making. Articles published in languages other than English were excluded. CONCLUSIONS Qualitative literature highlighting key factors which are important during antenatal counseling can inform and guide providers through the process of shared decision-making. Communicating clear, honest, and balanced information; avoiding artificially dichotomized options; and focusing on partnership building with families will help providers use the antenatal consultation to reach personalized decisions for each infant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanne A Krick
- Department of Pediatrics, Brooke Army Medical Center, San Antonio, TX.
| | - Dalia M Feltman
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Evanston Hospital, NorthShore University Health System, Evanston, IL; Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
| | - Marin Arnolds
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
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16
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Ethical considerations in the management of infants with severe intraventricular hemorrhage. Semin Perinatol 2022; 46:151599. [PMID: 35450739 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2022.151599] [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: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Intrinsic and extrinsic factors unique to neonatal care can complicate predictions of neurological outcomes for infants who suffer from severe intraventricular hemorrhage. While care decisions are driven by the same bioethical principles used in other domains, neurological prognostication can challenge concepts of futility, require careful examination of parental values, uncover biases and/or potentially compromise the best interests of the future child. In the following chapter we will review bioethical principles and relevant concepts, explore challenges to decision-making surrounding diagnoses of severe intraventricular hemorrhage and conclude with a brief review of practical approaches for counseling parents about neurodevelopmental impairment given the constraints of prognostic uncertainty and assumptions related to quality of life. We will argue that neurological findings alone, even in the setting of severe intraventricular hemorrhage, often do not constitute enough evidence for redirection of care but can be permissible when the entire neonatal condition is considered.
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17
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Torbert N, Neumann M, Birge N, Perkins D, Ehrhardt E, Weaver MS. Discipline-Specific Perspectives on Caring for Babies with Trisomy 13 or 18 in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Am J Perinatol 2022; 39:1074-1082. [PMID: 33285605 DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1721496] [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: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Care offerings vary across medical settings and between families for babies with trisomy 13 or 18. The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore nurse, advanced practice practitioner, and neonatologist perspectives on care for babies with trisomy 13 or 18 in the intensive care unit. STUDY DESIGN Voice-recorded qualitative interviews occurred with 64 participants (41 bedside nurses, 14 advance practice practitioners, and 9 neonatologists) from two neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in the midwestern United States. Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guidelines were followed. Content analyses occurred utilizing MAXQDA (VERBI Software, 2020). RESULTS Over half of NICU staff perceived care for babies with trisomy 13 or 18 as different from care for other babies with critical chronic illness. Qualitative themes included internal conflict, variable presentation and prognosis, grappling with uncertainty, family experiences, and provision of meaningful care. Neonatologists emphasized the variability of presentation and prognosis, while nurses emphasized provision of meaningful care. Phrases "hard/difficult" were spoken 31 times; primarily describing the comorbidities, complexities, and prognostic uncertainty. CONCLUSION Care for babies with these genetic diagnoses reveals need for a shared dialogue not only with families but also across staff disciplines. While perspectives differ, participants depicted striving to offer compassionate, family-centered care while also balancing biomedical uncertainty about interventions for children with trisomy 13 and 18. KEY POINTS · Care for babies with trisomy 13 or 18 has been recognized as shifting.. · Controversy exists across the diverse and changing range of care models.. · This study describes perspectives of bedside neonatal nurses, advanced practitioners, and neonatologists.. · Differences in perspectives warrant attentiveness to insights and dialogue across disciplines..
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Torbert
- Division of Neonatology, University of Nebraska Medical Center/Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Marie Neumann
- Division of Palliative Care, University of Nebraska Medical Center/Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Nicole Birge
- Division of Neonatology, University of Nebraska Medical Center/Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Donnetta Perkins
- Division of Neonatology, University of Nebraska Medical Center/Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Elizabeth Ehrhardt
- Division of Neonatology, University of Nebraska Medical Center/Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
| | - Meaghann S Weaver
- Division of Palliative Care, University of Nebraska Medical Center/Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
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18
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Personalized support of parents of extremely preterm infants before, during and after birth. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2022; 27:101335. [PMID: 35780043 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2022.101335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The emotional turmoil associated with extremely preterm birth is inescapable parents. How each parent handles the unexpected, makes sense of the unknown and learns to parent their child is uniquely personal. A rigid standardized approach to support families through their journey before and during neonatal intensive care disregards this individuality. This article reviews general concepts and practices that can be learned and applied by clinicians to promote resiliency and help parents cope adaptively. This review will describe how to personalize parenting support during the antenatal consultation and hospitalization for parents of extremely premature infants. To facilitate this, mindsets and care delivery models need to shift from inflexible standardized protocols to flexible guidelines that enable personalized communications, support structures and care delivery models tailored to each person's characteristics, preferences, and values.
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19
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Rizvydeen S, Feltman DM. What Happened to Dad? The Complexity of Paternal Trauma and Ethical Care. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOETHICS : AJOB 2022; 22:74-76. [PMID: 35475960 DOI: 10.1080/15265161.2022.2055213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Dalia M Feltman
- NorthShore University HealthSystem
- University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
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20
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The Work of Mothering in the NICU. Adv Neonatal Care 2022; 22:E112-E119. [DOI: 10.1097/anc.0000000000000984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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21
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Janvier A, Barrington K, Lantos J. Next generation sequencing in neonatology: what does it mean for the next generation? Hum Genet 2022; 141:1027-1034. [PMID: 35348890 DOI: 10.1007/s00439-022-02438-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Rapid whole genome sequencing (WGS) and whole exome sequencing (WES), sometimes referred to as "next generation sequencing" (NGS) are now recommended by some experts as a first-line diagnostic test to diagnose infants with suspected monogenic conditions. Estimates of how often NGS leads to diagnoses or changes in management vary widely depending on the population being studied and the indications for testing. Finding a genetic variant that is classified as pathogenic may not necessarily equate with being able to predict the resultant phenotype or to give a reliable prognosis. Molecular diagnoses do not usually lead to changes in clinical management but they often end a family's diagnostic Odyssey and allow informed decisions about future reproductive choices. The likelihood that NGS will be beneficial for patients and families in the NICU remains uncertain. The goal of this paper is to highlight the implications of these ambiguities in interpreting the results of NGS. To do that, we will first review the types of cases that are admitted to NICUs and show why, at least in theory, NGS is unlikely to be useful for most NICU patients and families and may even be harmful for some, although it can help families in some cases. We then present a number of real cases in which NGS results were obtained and show that they often lead to unforeseen and unpredictable consequences. Finally, we will suggest ways to communicate with families about NGS testing and results in order to help them understand the meaning of NGS results and the uncertainty that surrounds them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Janvier
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,Division of Neonatology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada.,Bureau de L'éthique Clinique, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,Unité d'éthique Clinique, Unité de Soins Palliatifs, Bureau du Partenariat Patients-Familles-Soignants, centre d'excellence en Éthique Clinique, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada
| | - Keith Barrington
- Department of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada.,Division of Neonatology, CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada
| | - John Lantos
- University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, USA.
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22
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Personalized communication with parents of children born at less than 25 weeks: Moving from doctor-driven to parent-personalized discussions. Semin Perinatol 2022; 46:151551. [PMID: 34893335 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2021.151551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Communication with parents is an essential component of neonatal care. For extremely preterm infants born at less than 25 weeks, this process is complicated by the substantial risk of mortality or major morbidity. For some babies with specific prognostic factors, the majority die. Although many of these deaths occur after admission to the intensive care unit, position statements have focused on communication during the prenatal consultation. This review takes a more comprehensive approach and covers personalized and parent-centered communication in the clinical setting during three distinct yet inter-related phases: the antenatal consultation, the neonatal intensive care hospitalization, and the dying process (when this happens). We advocate that a 'one-size-fits-all' communication model focused on standardizing information does not lead to partnerships. It is possible to standardize personalized approaches that recognize and adapt to parental heterogeneity. This can help clinicians and parents build effective partnerships of trust and affective support to engage in personalized decision-making. These practices begin with self-reflection on the part of the clinician and continue with practical frameworks and stepwise approaches supporting personalization and parent-centered communication.
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23
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Eissler AB, Zwakhalen S, Stoffel L, Hahn S. Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Involving Parents During Painful Interventions for Their Preterm Infants. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2022; 51:6-15. [PMID: 34627734 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2021.08.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To systematically review the literature related to the effectiveness of parents' active involvement during painful interventions for their preterm infants. DATA SOURCES We performed a systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE/Ovid, CINAHL, Livivio, and PsycInfo using the keywords "preterm infants," "pain," and "parents." STUDY SELECTION Articles were eligible for inclusion if they were published between 2000 and 2021 and reported randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in which preterm infants underwent painful interventions, and parents were present and actively involved in pain-reducing measures. DATA EXTRACTION We used the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) checklist for RCTs for data extraction. We assessed methodologic quality using critical appraisal for RCTs according to the Joanna Briggs Institute. DATA SYNTHESIS In total, 22 articles met the inclusion criteria. These articles reported 19 studies focused on kangaroo/skin-to-skin care, one focused on breastfeeding, and two focused on facilitated tucking. The methods used to evaluate pain in the infant varied substantially. Overall, kangaroo/skin-to-skin care and facilitated tucking resulted in clinically and statistically significant decreases in pain. For breastfeeding, effectiveness was linked to a more mature sucking pattern of the preterm infant. CONCLUSION The current evidence suggests that involving parents in pain-reducing measures during painful interventions for their preterm infants is beneficial. However, more research is needed for the different methods of involving parents in pain-reducing measures.
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24
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Vance AJ, Malin KJ, Miller J, Shuman CJ, Moore TA, Benjamin A. Parents' pandemic NICU experience in the United States: a qualitative study. BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:558. [PMID: 34886824 PMCID: PMC8655088 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-03028-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, parents of infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) frequently reported high levels of stress, uncertainty, and decreased parenting confidence. Early research has demonstrated that parents have had less access to their infants in the hospital due to restrictions on parental presence secondary to the pandemic. It is unknown how parents have perceived their experiences in the NICU since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study was to describe the lived experience of parents who had an infant in the NICU in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic to inform healthcare providers and policy makers for future development of policies and care planning. Methods The study design was a qualitative description of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on parents’ experiences of having an infant in the NICU. Free-text responses to open-ended questions were collected as part of a multi-method study of parents’ experiences of the NICU during the first six months of the pandemic. Participants from the United States were recruited using social media platforms between the months of May and July of 2020. Data were analyzed using a reflexive thematic approach. Findings Free-text responses came from 169 parents from 38 different states in the United States. Three broad themes emerged from the analysis: (1) parents’ NICU experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic were emotionally isolating and overwhelming, (2) policy changes restricting parental presence created disruptions to the family unit and limited family-centered care, and (3) interactions with NICU providers intensified or alleviated emotional distress felt by parents. A unifying theme of experiences of emotional distress attributed to COVID-19 circumstances ran through all three themes. Conclusions Parents of infants in the NICU during the first six months of the COVID-19 pandemic experienced emotional struggles, feelings of isolation, lack of family-centered care, and deep disappointment with system-level decisions. Moving forward, parents need to be considered essential partners in the development of policies concerning care of and access to their infants. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12887-021-03028-w.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashlee J Vance
- National Clinician Scholars Program, University of Michigan, School of Nursing, NCRC Building 14, Suite G-100, 2800 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA.
| | - Kathryn J Malin
- Marquette University, College of Nursing, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Jacquelyn Miller
- Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA
| | | | - Tiffany A Moore
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, College of Nursing, Omaha, NE, USA
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25
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Forth FA, Hammerle F, König J, Urschitz MS, Neuweiler P, Mildenberger E, Kidszun A. The COPE-Trial-Communicating prognosis to parents in the neonatal ICU: Optimistic vs. PEssimistic: study protocol for a randomized controlled crossover trial using two different scripted video vignettes to explore communication preferences of parents of preterm infants. Trials 2021; 22:884. [PMID: 34872601 PMCID: PMC8647439 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-021-05796-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the numerous challenges preterm birth poses for parents and physicians is prognostic disclosure. Prognoses are based on scientific evidence and medical experience. They are subject to individual assessment and will generally remain uncertain with regard to the individual. This can result in differences in prognostic framing and thus affect the recipients' perception. In neonatology, data on the effects of prognostic framing are scarce. In particular, it is unclear whether parents prefer a more optimistic or a more pessimistic prognostic framing. OBJECTIVE To explore parents' preferences concerning prognostic framing and its effects on parent-reported outcomes and experiences. To identify predictors (demographic, psychological) of parents' communication preferences. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS Unblinded, randomized controlled crossover trial (RCT) at the Division of Neonatology of the University Medical Center Mainz, Germany, including German-speaking parents or guardians of infants born preterm between 2010 and 2019 with a birth weight < 1500 g. Inclusion of up to 204 families is planned, with possible revision according to a blinded sample size reassessment. INTERVENTION Embedded in an online survey and in pre-specified order, participants will watch two video vignettes depicting a more optimistic vs. a more pessimistic framing in prognostic disclosure to parents of a preterm infant. Apart from prognostic framing, all other aspects of physician-parent communication are standardized in both videos. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES At baseline and after each video, participants complete a two-part online questionnaire (baseline and post-intervention). Primary outcome is the preference for either a more optimistic or a more pessimistic prognostic framing. Secondary outcomes include changes in state-anxiety (STAI-SKD), satisfaction with prognostic framing, evaluation of prognosis, future optimism and hope, preparedness for shared decision-making (each assessed using customized questions), and general impression (customized question), professionalism (adapted from GMC Patient Questionnaire) and compassion (Physician Compassion Questionnaire) of the consulting physician. DISCUSSION This RCT will explore parents' preferences concerning prognostic framing and its effects on physician-parent communication. Results may contribute to a better understanding of parental needs in prognostic disclosure and will be instrumental for a broad audience of clinicians, scientists, and ethicists. TRIAL REGISTRATION German Clinical Trials Register DRKS00024466 . Registered on April 16, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona A Forth
- Division of Neonatology, Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany.
- DFG-Research Training Group "Life Sciences - Life Writing", Institute for the History, Philosophy and Ethics of Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Am Pulverturm 13, 55131, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Florian Hammerle
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Jochem König
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology, Institute of Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (IMBEI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher Strasse 69, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Michael S Urschitz
- Division of Pediatric Epidemiology, Institute of Medical Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Informatics (IMBEI), University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Obere Zahlbacher Strasse 69, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - Philipp Neuweiler
- Journalistisches Seminar, Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Alte Universitätsstrasse 17, 55116, Mainz, Germany
| | - Eva Mildenberger
- Division of Neonatology, Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
- DFG-Research Training Group "Life Sciences - Life Writing", Institute for the History, Philosophy and Ethics of Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Am Pulverturm 13, 55131, Mainz, Germany
| | - André Kidszun
- Division of Neonatology, Center for Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center of the Johannes Gutenberg-University Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131, Mainz, Germany
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Freiburgstraße, CH-3010, Bern, Switzerland
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Neumann ML, Weaver MS, Lord B, Wiener L, Hinds PS. Care Provider Behaviors That Shape Parent Identity as a "Good Parent" to Their Seriously Ill Child. Palliat Med Rep 2021; 2:113-121. [PMID: 33937910 PMCID: PMC8086518 DOI: 10.1089/pmr.2021.0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Parents of medically complex children hold deeply personal definitions of how to be “good parents” that guide their medical decision making and interactions with providers and are impacted by provider behaviors. Objective: This study explored whether and how these beliefs are shaped by interactions with care providers and which provider behaviors foster or impede parents' ability to achieve their “good parent” definitions. Methods: A 63-item web-based survey distributed by an online support network for parents of medically complex children. Responses to closed- and open-ended questions from 67 caregivers based in the United States and Europe were analyzed. Results: Respondents' medical decisions are driven by goals of unselfishly doing what is best for my child (61%) and being my child's voice (18%). Almost half indicated that their personal “good parent” definition was impacted by provider behaviors or interactions with physicians or nurses. Although most parents reported wanting trusted care providers to ask them about their personal “good parent” definition, only 7% had ever been directly asked by members of their care teams about this topic. Provider behaviors such as kind and caring interactions, acknowledging the parents' role in caring for the child, and truly seeing the child as more than a diagnosis were reported as fostering caregivers' ability to achieve their “good parent” beliefs. Conclusions: The findings indicate that trusted provider-initiated conversations about “good parent” beliefs would be well received and are an opportunity to improve family-centered care. Care provider behaviors deemed by parents as supportive facilitate their efforts to achieve their “good parent” beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie L Neumann
- Division of Transplant Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA
| | - Meaghann S Weaver
- Division of Pediatric Palliative Care, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital and Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, USA.,National Center for Ethics in Healthcare, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Blyth Lord
- Courageous Parents Network, Newton, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lori Wiener
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute (NCI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Pamela S Hinds
- Department of Nursing Science, Professional Practice and Quality, Children's National Health System, Washington, DC, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, the George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
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Honoring the Good Parent Intentions of Courageous Parents: A Thematic Summary from a US-Based National Survey. CHILDREN-BASEL 2020; 7:children7120265. [PMID: 33271834 PMCID: PMC7760659 DOI: 10.3390/children7120265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Parents of children with complex medical needs describe an internal, personal definition of "trying to be a good parent" for their loved child. Gaps exist in the current "good parent concept" literature: (1) When the idea of "trying to be a good parent" comes into existence for parents, (2) How parents' definition of "being a good parent" may change over time and may influence interactions with the child, and (3) Whether parents perceive attainment of their personal definition. AIM The purpose of this study was to explore these current gaps in the "good parent concept" knowledge base from the perspective of parents of children with chronic or complex illness. MATERIALS AND METHODS These themes were explored through a 63-item, mixed-method web-based survey distributed by the Courageous Parents Network (CPN), an organization and online platform that orients, educates, and empowers families and providers caring for seriously ill children. RESULTS The term "trying to be a good parent" resonated with 85% of the 67 responding parents. For the majority of parents, the concept of "being a good parent" started to exist in parental awareness before the child's birth (70.2%) and evolved over time (67.5%) to include less judgment and more self-compassion. Parents identified their awareness of their child's prognosis and changing health as influential on their "trying to be a good parent" concept. Parental advocacy, child's age, and duration of illness were reported as influencing parental perceptions of having achieved their definition of "being a good parent". CONCLUSIONS Familiarity with parental perspectives on their parenting goodness and goals is a necessary core of family-centric health care.
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Schuler R, Ehrhardt H, Mihatsch WA. Safety and Parental Satisfaction With Early Discharge of Preterm Infants on Nasogastric Tube Feeding and Outpatient Clinic Follow-Up. Front Pediatr 2020; 8:505. [PMID: 32984217 PMCID: PMC7491054 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.00505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate our early discharge program of preterm infants with nasogastric tube feeding (NTF) and close outpatient clinic follow-up with regard to safety, parent satisfaction and parental stress level. Methods: 119 preterm infants were discharged on NTF from our tertiary care neonatal unit (median gestational age 31.0 weeks, median birthweight 1,650 g). Parental satisfaction was evaluated by a standardized questionnaire. For safety assessment growth until term equivalent age and re-hospitalizations within 2 months after discharge were evaluated. Results: Infants were discharged home at a median gestational age of 35.4 weeks after a median hospital stay of 22 days. Follow up was attained in 95 of 104 parent-infant dyads. The majority of parents (94%) reported that they had made the right decision in taking their infant home on NTF. At the time of discharge 86% of parents felt very well-prepared to perform NTF. 70% Of parents rated their stress level at home as low (≤2 out of 5). There were no NTF associated readmissions and no growth faltering until term equivalent age. Conclusion: Early discharge of preterm infants with NTF together with outpatient clinic follow-up is very well-accepted by parents and appears to be safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Schuler
- Department of General Pediatrics and Neonatology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Harald Ehrhardt
- Department of General Pediatrics and Neonatology, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Walter A. Mihatsch
- Hospital Pforzheim, Teaching Hospital of Heidelberg University, Pforzheim, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
- University of Applied Sciences, Neu-Ulm, Germany
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