1
|
Saito T, Shimokaze T, Niizuma M, Suzuki M, Toyoshima M, Toyoshima K. The effects of telepresence with real-time video and audio communication on parent-infant interaction and staff experience in neonatal intensive care unit. PEC INNOVATION 2024; 5:100315. [PMID: 39101054 PMCID: PMC11296235 DOI: 10.1016/j.pecinn.2024.100315] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024]
Abstract
Objective We implemented an online visitation system named "telepresence" in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for family members at home to communicate with their babies in real-time using video and audio. This study evaluated the impact of this system on families and medical staff. Methods Nineteen families of babies admitted to the NICU between 2022 and 2023 and 65 medical staff participated. Each family experienced two weeks of virtual visits. Changes in parental depression and attachment were assessed. Result Before and after telepresence, the median Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale score reduced from 6 to 4 (p = 0.026), and the Mother-to-Infant Bonding Scale score showed a decreasing trend, with both medians at 2 (p = 0.057). Eighty-nine percent of the parents and 97% of staff reported that telepresence did not increase parental stress, and 88% of parents felt positive changes in their baby's siblings. All parents wanted to visit their babies in person after seeing them on camera. Conclusion Telepresence improved parental mental health, reduced family distress, and supported connection with their infants, making them eager to visit in person. Innovations This technology potentially make parents want to visit more by helping them feel more connected to their infants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomoko Saito
- Department of Neonatology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Shimokaze
- Department of Neonatology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Miku Niizuma
- Department of Nursing, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Masako Suzuki
- Department of Nursing, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Makiko Toyoshima
- Department of Nursing, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Katsuaki Toyoshima
- Department of Neonatology, Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
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.
Collapse
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.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cigdem Z, Guler S, Yavas Celik M. Restriction of visits to neonatal intensive care units in the COVID-19 pandemic. J Eval Clin Pract 2024. [PMID: 38976629 DOI: 10.1111/jep.14092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study, it examine how visits to neonatal intensive care units were made during the COVID-19 process and how mothers were affected by this process. METHODS In this phenomenological study, interviews were conducted with semi-structured questions and face-to-face interviews with the participants. While collecting the data, both observation and interview techniques were used. A content analysis technique was used to analyse the data. RESULTS The findings of the study were gathered under two themes: 'mothers' recommendations about visits in neonatal intensive care units' and 'mothers' fear of transmitting COVID-19'. CONCLUSION As a result, visitor restrictions implemented during the pandemic period hurt on newborns. During the pandemic period, visitor restrictions were imposed in neonatal intensive care units around the world. Unfortunately, in our study, it was determined that this restriction was made. This situation may have adversely affected the mother-infant attachment and the growth and development of the baby and may have led to irreversible problems. Therefore, newborn nurses should give more importance to mother-infant interaction and continue their treatment and care without separating infants from their mothers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zerrin Cigdem
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Istanbul Topkapı University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Selver Guler
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Kilis 7 Aralık University, Kilis, Turkey
| | - Melike Yavas Celik
- Department of Midwifery, Faculty of Health Sciences, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Harlow AB, Ledbetter L, Brandon DH. Parental presence, participation, and engagement in paediatric hospital care: A conceptual delineation. J Adv Nurs 2024; 80:2758-2771. [PMID: 38037504 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15996] [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: 03/03/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
AIM To delineate between the concepts of parental presence, participation, and engagement in paediatric hospital care. DESIGN The concepts' uses in the literature were analysed to determine attributes, influences, and relationships. METHODS Delineations of each concept are established and conceptual definitions are proposed following Morses' methods. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE (PubMed); CINAHL, PsycINFO, Sociology Source Ultimate (EBSCOhost); Embase, Scopus (Elsevier); Google Scholar. Search dates October 2021, February 2023. RESULTS Multinational publications dated 1991-2023 revealed these concepts represent a range of parental behaviours, beliefs, and actions, which are not always perceptible to nurses, but which are important in family-integrated care delivery. Parental presence is the state of a parent being physically and/or emotionally with their child. Parental participation reflects parents' performing caregiving activities with or without nurses. Parental engagement is a parents' state of emotional involvement in their child's health and the ways they act on their child's behalf. CONCLUSION These concepts' manifestations are important to parental role attainment but may be inadequately understood and considered by healthcare providers. IMPLICATIONS Nurses have influence over parents' parental presence, participation, and engagement in their child's care but need support from healthcare institutions to ensure equitable family-integrated care delivery. IMPACT Problem: Lack of clear definition among these concepts results in incomplete and at times inequitable family-integrated care delivery. FINDINGS Parental presence is an antecedent to parental participation, and parental presence and participation are elements of parental engagement. The concepts interact to influence one another. IMPACT Hospitalized children, their families, nurses, and researchers will benefit through a better understanding of the concepts' attributes, interactions, and implications for enhanced family-integrated care delivery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Leila Ledbetter
- Duke University Medical Center Library and Archives, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Debra H Brandon
- Duke University School of Nursing, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Campbell-Yeo M, Bacchini F, Alcock L, Mitra S, MacNeil M, Mireault A, Beltempo M, Bishop T, Campbell DM, Chilcott A, Comeau JL, Dol J, Grant A, Gubbay J, Hughes B, Hundert A, Inglis D, Lakoff A, Lalani Y, Luu TM, Morton J, Narvey M, O’Brien K, Robeson P, Science M, Shah P, Whitehead L. Practice recommendations regarding parental presence in NICUs during pandemics caused by respiratory pathogens like COVID-19. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1390209. [PMID: 38983460 PMCID: PMC11232356 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1390209] [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: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim To co-create parental presence practice recommendations across Canadian NICUs during pandemics caused by respiratory pathogens such as COVID-19. Methods Recommendations were developed through evidence, context, Delphi and Values and Preferences methods. For Delphi 1 and 2, participants rated 50 items and 20 items respectively on a scale from 1 (very low importance) to 5 (very high). To determine consensus, evidence and context of benefits and harms were presented and discussed within the Values and Preference framework for the top-ranked items. An agreement of 80% or more was deemed consensus. Results After two Delphi rounds (n = 59 participants), 13 recommendations with the highest rated importance were identified. Consensus recommendations included 6 strong recommendations (parents as essential caregivers, providing skin-to-skin contact, direct or mothers' own expressed milk feeding, attending medical rounds, mental health and psychosocial services access, and inclusion of parent partners in pandemic response planning) and 7 conditional recommendations (providing hands-on care tasks, providing touch, two parents present at the same time, food and drink access, use of communication devices, and in-person access to medical rounds and mental health and psychosocial services). Conclusion These recommendations can guide institutions in developing strategies for parental presence during pandemics caused by respiratory pathogens like COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marsha Campbell-Yeo
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Lynsey Alcock
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Souvik Mitra
- Department of Pediatrics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Morgan MacNeil
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Amy Mireault
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Marc Beltempo
- Montreal Children’s Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tanya Bishop
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | | | - Jeannette L. Comeau
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Faculty of Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Justine Dol
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Amy Grant
- Maritime SPOR SUPPORT Unit, Nova Scotia Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Jonathon Gubbay
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Brianna Hughes
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Department of Nursing, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE, Canada
| | - Amos Hundert
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Darlene Inglis
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | - Yasmin Lalani
- Canadian Premature Babies Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Humber River Health, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Thuy Mai Luu
- Département de Pédiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montréal, QC, Canada
| | - Jenna Morton
- Canadian Premature Babies Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Pickle Planet, Moncton, NB, Canada
| | - Michael Narvey
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - Karel O’Brien
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Michelle Science
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Paediatrics, SickKids Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Prakesh Shah
- Department of Pediatrics, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Department of Paediatrics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Leah Whitehead
- Department of Pediatrics, IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
- Canadian Premature Babies Foundation, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hoeben H, Obermann-Borst SA, Stelwagen MA, van Kempen AAMW, van Goudoever JB, van der Schoor SRD, van Veenendaal NR. 'Not a goal, but a given': Neonatal care participation through parents' perspective, a cross-sectional study. Acta Paediatr 2024; 113:1246-1256. [PMID: 38436526 DOI: 10.1111/apa.17179] [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: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
AIM To explore parents' perspectives regarding participation in neonatal care, with focus on the family integrated care (FICare) model utilised as a tool to enhance parent-infant closeness. Additionally, we describe experiences in different architectural settings. METHODS An online survey, categorised by four FICare pillars, was distributed through social media to parents of newborns hospitalised to Dutch neonatal wards between 2015 and 2020. Quantitative findings were summarised using descriptive statistics, while open-ended responses were thematically analysed. RESULTS Among the 344 respondents (98% mothers), most reported feeling involved in care (315/340). However, 79% also felt separated from their infant (265/337). Irrespective of architectural settings, parents reported incomplete implementation of FICare pillars: 14% was invited to educational sessions (parent education), 51% discussed family-specific care plans (staff education), 21% was facilitated in connecting with veteran parents (psychosocial support) and 22% received couplet-care (environment). Although 65% of parents were invited to attend clinical rounds, 32% actively participated in decision making. Thematic analysis revealed fundamentals for feeling welcome on the ward, peer-to-peer support, psychosocial support and participation in clinical rounds. CONCLUSION Overall, parents expressed satisfaction with participation in neonatal care. However, structural implementation of FICare lacks. Regardless of architecture, expanding parent participation beyond presence requires attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Hoeben
- Department of Pediatrics/Neonatology, OLVG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Emma Children's Hospital Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Johannes B van Goudoever
- Emma Children's Hospital Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sophie R D van der Schoor
- Department of Pediatrics/Neonatology, OLVG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Nicole R van Veenendaal
- Department of Pediatrics/Neonatology, OLVG, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Emma Children's Hospital Department of Pediatrics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
MacNeil M, Campbell-Yeo M, McCulloch H, Hughes B, Dol J, Marriott N, Smith V, Alcock L. Parental Perspectives on Impact of Parental Presence Restrictions in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit During the COVID-19 pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs 2023; 37:E17-E23. [PMID: 37773590 DOI: 10.1097/jpn.0000000000000714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe parental experiences in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) during the COVID-19 restrictions. We explore what parents found most challenging, the impact these restrictions had on them and their infant, and how they coped. METHODS A cross-sectional online survey was completed by parents of infants who required care in a Canadian NICU during the early period of the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from 3 questions were coded using thematic analysis. RESULTS Participants ( n = 161) were primarily mothers (93%), with an average length of stay of 32.1 days. Three themes were identified from responses: (1) emotional and physical closeness of the parents to their infant; (2) physical and psychosocial well-being of the infant and parent; and (3) how parents coped, and strategies for moving forward. Parents reported that parental restriction policies adversely impacted their perceived physical and emotional closeness with their infant and their infant's physical and psychosocial well-being. Parents reported that being able to be present with their infant, having their partner able to be present with them, and effective communication helped them cope. CONCLUSION Despite the need for some restrictive policies to control the spread of the virus, the benefits and risks to the overall well-being of the parents and infants must be weighed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Morgan MacNeil
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health (Mss MacNeil and Hughes and Dr Campbell-Yeo), and Departments of Pediatrics, Psychology and Neuroscience (Dr Campbell-Yeo), Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada; IWK Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada (Mss MacNeil, McCulloch, Hughes, Marriott, Smith, and Alcock and Drs Campbell-Yeo and Dol); Department of Nursing, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada (Ms Hughes); and Mothering Transitions Research Lab, St Michael's Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada (Dr Dol)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Itoshima R, Tuura K, Toome L, Varendi H, Saik P, Axelin A, Lehtonen L, Ahlqvist-Björkroth S. Depressive symptoms in mothers of preterm infants before and during COVID-19 restrictions in neonatal intensive care units. Acta Paediatr 2023; 112:2164-2171. [PMID: 37354112 DOI: 10.1111/apa.16886] [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: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
AIM Little is known about the specific restriction measures used in intensive care units (NICUs) during the COVID-19 pandemic and their impact on parental well-being. Hence, this study aimed to assess the association between restriction measures and mothers' post-partum depressive symptoms. METHODS This comparative cohort study included mothers who gave birth before 35 weeks of gestation in Estonia. The outcome measure was mothers' post-partum depressive symptoms at the time of infant discharge, evaluated using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS). In addition to the pandemic itself, the number of restriction measures in the NICUs was analysed as a potential explanatory factor for depressive symptoms. RESULTS The study included 55 mothers before the pandemic in 2018-2019 and 54 mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2021. No significant difference was found in the median EPDS scores between the cohorts: 7.0 [interquartile range (IQR): 4.0-12.0] and 8.0 (IQR: 5.0-12.8) respectively. The number of restriction measures was not associated with mothers' EPDS scores in either unadjusted or adjusted models. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 pandemic or the number of restriction measures used in Estonian NICUs did not associate with mothers' post = partum depressive symptoms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ryo Itoshima
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
- Division of Neonatology, Nagano Children's Hospital, Azumino, Japan
| | - Kirsi Tuura
- Department of Psychology and Language Pathology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Liis Toome
- Department of Neonatal and Infant Medicine, Tallinn Children's Hospital, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Heili Varendi
- Neonatal Unit, Children's Clinic of Tartu University Hospital, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Pille Saik
- Department of Neonatology, West-Tallinn Central Hospital, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Anna Axelin
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Liisa Lehtonen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Sari Ahlqvist-Björkroth
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
- Department of Psychology and Language Pathology, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Deindl P, Witting A, Dür M, Berger A, Klebermass-Schrehof K, Singer D, Giordano V, Fuiko R. Perceived stress of mothers and fathers on two NICUs before and during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Sci Rep 2023; 13:14540. [PMID: 37666877 PMCID: PMC10477236 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40836-9] [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: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Parents of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants in a neonatal intensive care unit experienced additional stress during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic due to the related restrictions in hospital visiting policies. Our study aimed to compare parents' burdens before and during the pandemic. This survey included 121 parents of 76 VLBW infants in two European Level IV perinatal centers before and during the pandemic. We performed standardized parent questionnaires with mothers and fathers separately to evaluate their emotional stress and well-being. The pandemic worsened the emotional well-being of parents of VLBW infants, particularly of mothers. During the pandemic, mothers reported significantly higher state anxiety levels (48.9 vs. 42.9, p = 0.026) and hampered bonding with the child (6.3 vs. 5.2, 0 = 0.003) than before. In addition, mothers felt more personally restricted than fathers (6.1 vs. 5.2, p = 0.003). Fathers experienced lower levels of stress than mothers; they were equally burdened before and during the pandemic. Restrictions in visiting policies for families of VLBW infants during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic have a significant negative impact on parental stress and should therefore be applied cautiously.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Deindl
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Andrea Witting
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mona Dür
- Duervation, Krems, Austria
- Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Angelika Berger
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katrin Klebermass-Schrehof
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dominique Singer
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Vito Giordano
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Renate Fuiko
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wray J, Ndokera R, Pierce CM, Oldham G. The impact of restrictions to visiting in paediatric intensive care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurs Crit Care 2023; 28:818-825. [PMID: 36593739 DOI: 10.1111/nicc.12873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Restrictions to hospital visiting were mandated during the COVID-19 pandemic, with variability in the degree of restriction imposed. At times, paediatric intensive care units (ICU) restricted visiting to one parent/carer. Views of parents/carers and ICU staff about changes in the visiting policy are not well understood. STUDY DESIGN This is a Service evaluation involving questionnaire survey incorporating rating scales and free-text comments. Inner-city specialist children's hospital. Parents/carers of children on ICU between December 2020-March 2021 and staff who were working on ICU during May-June 2021. Parents and staff on ICU were invited to complete a questionnaire focusing on their experience of being or working on ICU. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively and free-text comments were thematically analysed. RESULTS Completed questionnaires were received from 81/103 (79%) parents/carers and 217/550 (39%) staff. The majority of parents (n = 60;77%) and staff (n = 191;89%) understood the need for the one-parent visiting policy but acknowledged it was a source of considerable stress. More staff than parents agreed it was appropriate other relatives/friends visiting was not permitted (Z = 3.715;p < .001). There was no association between parents' satisfaction with their child's care and views about the visiting policy. However, staff were more likely to report an impact on their ability to deliver family centred care if they disagreed with the policy. CONCLUSION The COVID-19 visiting policy had a clear impact on parents and staff. In the event of any future threat to open-access visiting to children in hospital, the potentially damaging effect on children, parents, and staff must be considered. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Visiting policies need to take account of parents being partners in their child's care, rather than purely visitors to the unit where their child is being cared for. Visiting for two carers should always be facilitated, including during a crisis such as a pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jo Wray
- Heart and Lung Directorate, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Rufaro Ndokera
- Heart and Lung Directorate, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Christine M Pierce
- Heart and Lung Directorate, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Geralyn Oldham
- DRIVE, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Haeusslein L, Gano D, Gay CL, Kriz RM, Bisgaard R, Vega M, Cormier DM, Joe P, Walker V, Kim JH, Lin C, Sun Y, Franck LS. Relationship between social support and post-discharge mental health symptoms in mothers of preterm infants. J Reprod Infant Psychol 2023; 41:260-274. [PMID: 34587850 PMCID: PMC8960471 DOI: 10.1080/02646838.2021.1984404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Social support is associated with decreased symptoms of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMAD) in mothers of healthy infants, but less is known about social support and PMADs in mothers with preterm infants. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between social support and symptoms of PMADs reported by mothers in the months following hospital discharge of their preterm infant. METHODS Mothers of infants less than 33 weeks gestational age were enrolled from neonatal intensive care units (NICU) at 6 sites. Mothers completed PMAD measures of depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress approximately 3 months following their infant's discharge. Multivariable regression was used to evaluate relationships between social support and PMAD measures. RESULTS Of 129 mothers, 1 in 5 reported clinically significant PMAD symptoms of: depression (24%), anxiety (19%), and post-traumatic stress (20%). Social support was strongly inversely associated with all 3 PMADs. Social support explained between 21% and 26% of the variance in depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress symptoms. CONCLUSION Increased social support may buffer PMAD symptoms in mothers of preterm infants after discharge. Research is needed to determine effective screening and interventions aimed at promoting social support for all parents during and following their infant's hospitalisation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laurel Haeusslein
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Dawn Gano
- Department of Neurology and Pediatrics, UCSF
| | - Caryl L. Gay
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Rebecca M. Kriz
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Robin Bisgaard
- Intensive Care Nursery, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, San Francisco
| | - Myrna Vega
- Intensive Care Nursery, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, San Francisco
| | | | - Priscilla Joe
- Division of Neonatology, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, Oakland
| | - Valencia Walker
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Jae H. Kim
- Division of Neonatology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center
| | - Carol Lin
- Division of Neonatology, Kaiser Permanente Santa Clara
| | - Yao Sun
- Division of Neonatology, UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital, San Francisco
| | - Linda S. Franck
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Franck LS, Axelin A, Van Veenendaal NR, Bacchini F. Improving Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Quality and Safety with Family-Centered Care. Clin Perinatol 2023; 50:449-472. [PMID: 37201991 DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
There is strong evidence that family-centered care (FCC) improves the health and safety of infants and families in neonatal settings. In this review, we highlight the importance of common, evidence-based quality improvement (QI) methodology applied to FCC and the imperative to engage in partnership with neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) families. To further optimize NICU care, families should be included as essential team members in all NICU QI activities, not only FCC QI activities. Recommendations are provided for building inclusive FCC QI teams, assessing FCC, creating culture change, supporting health-care practitioners and working with parent-led organizations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda S Franck
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 2 Koret Way, N411F, Box 0606, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA.
| | - Anna Axelin
- Department of Nursing Science, University of Turku, 20014 University of Turku, Finland. https://twitter.com/AnnaAxelin
| | - Nicole R Van Veenendaal
- Department of Pediatrics, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, the Netherlands. https://twitter.com/nicolevan_vee
| | - Fabiana Bacchini
- Canadian Premature Babies Foundation, 4225-B Dundas Street West, Etobicoke, ON M8X 1Y3, Canada. https://twitter.com/fabianabacchini
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Brekke SM, Halvorsen ST, Bjørkvoll J, Thorsby PM, Rønnestad A, Zykova SN, Bakke LH, Dahl SR, Haaland K, Eger SHW, Solberg MT, Solevåg AL. The association between infant salivary cortisol and parental presence in the neonatal intensive care unit during and after COVID-19 visitation restrictions: A cross-sectional study. Early Hum Dev 2023; 182:105788. [PMID: 37224589 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2023.105788] [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: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 05/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Parent-infant interaction in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) promotes health and reduces infant stress. During the COVID-19 pandemic, however, NICUs restricted parent-infant interaction to reduce viral transmission. This study examined the potential relationship between pandemic visitation restrictions, parental presence and infant stress as measured by salivary cortisol. METHODS A two-NICU cross-sectional study of infants with gestational age (GA) 23-41 weeks, both during (n = 34) and after (n = 38) visitation restrictions. We analysed parental presence with and without visitation restrictions. The relationship between infant salivary cortisol and self-reported parental NICU presence in hours per day was analysed using Pearson's r. A linear regression analysis included potential confounders, including GA and proxies for infant morbidity. The unstandardised B coefficient described the expected change in log-transformed salivary cortisol per unit change in each predictor variable. RESULTS Included infants had a mean (standard deviation) GA of 31(5) weeks. Both maternal and paternal NICU presence was lower with versus without visitation restrictions (both p ≤0.05). Log-transformed infant salivary cortisol correlated negatively with hours of parental presence (r = -0.40, p = .01). In the linear regression, GA (B = -0.03, p = .02) and central venous lines (B = 0.23, p = .04) contributed to the variance in salivary cortisol in addition to parental presence (B = -0.04 p = .04). CONCLUSION COVID-19-related visitation restrictions reduced NICU parent-infant interaction and may have increased infant stress. Low GA and central venous lines were associated with higher salivary cortisol. The interaction between immaturity, morbidity and parental presence was not within the scope of this study and merits further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stine Marie Brekke
- Department of Master and Postgraduate Education, Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Oslo, Norway; The Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Silje Torp Halvorsen
- Department of Master and Postgraduate Education, Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Oslo, Norway; The Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Julie Bjørkvoll
- Department of Master and Postgraduate Education, Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Oslo, Norway; The Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Per Medbøe Thorsby
- Hormone laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biochemical endocrinology and metabolism research group, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Arild Rønnestad
- The Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute for clinical medicine, Faulty of medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Svetlana N Zykova
- Hormone laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biochemical endocrinology and metabolism research group, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Liv Hanne Bakke
- Hormone laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biochemical endocrinology and metabolism research group, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sandra Rinne Dahl
- Hormone laboratory, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biochemical endocrinology and metabolism research group, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kirsti Haaland
- The Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Siw Helen Westby Eger
- The Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marianne Trygg Solberg
- Department of Master and Postgraduate Education, Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Lee Solevåg
- Department of Master and Postgraduate Education, Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Oslo, Norway; The Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Richter LL, Ku C, Mak MYY, Holsti L, Kieran E, Alonso-Prieto E, Ranger M. Experiences of Mothers of Preterm Infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Adv Neonatal Care 2023:00149525-990000000-00061. [PMID: 37036932 DOI: 10.1097/anc.0000000000001071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay following the birth of a preterm infant can be stressful and traumatic for families. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the NICU environment changed precipitously as infection control and visitor restriction measures were implemented. PURPOSE Our study aimed to examine the impact of the pandemic policies on the experiences of mothers of preterm infants during their stay in the NICU. METHODS Semistructured interviews were conducted with mothers of preterm infants hospitalized in a Canadian tertiary-level NICU. Informed by interpretive description methodology, interview content was transcribed and analyzed using a thematic analysis approach. The identified themes were validated, clarified, or refined using investigator triangulation. RESULTS Nine English-speaking mothers, aged 28 to 40 years, were interviewed. Four themes emerged from the analysis of their experiences: (1) disrupted family dynamic, support, and bonding; (2) physical and emotional isolation; (3) negative psychological impact compounded by added concerns, maternal role change, and survival mode mentality; and (4) positive aspects of the pandemic management measures. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE During the pandemic, the way that care was provided in the NICU changed. This study helps to explore how neonatal clinicians can foster individual and organizational resilience to keep patients and families at the center of care, even when the healthcare system is under intense stress. IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH : Our results show that these changes heightened mothers' distress, but also had a modest positive impact. Further research about long-term consequences of pandemic policies on the mother and preterm infant after NICU discharge is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay L Richter
- Department of Pediatrics (Ms Richter and Drs Holsti, Kieran, Alonso-Prieto, and Ranger), Emergency Medicine (Ms Mak), and Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy (Dr Holsti), University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; British Columbia Women's Hospital and Health Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (Ms Richter and Drs Holsti, Kieran, Alonso-Prieto, and Ranger); and School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (Ms Ku and Dr Ranger)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kılıç ST, Taşgıt A. Sociodemographic factors affecting depression-anxiety-stress levels and coping strategies of parents with babies treated in neonatal intensive care units during the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF NEONATAL NURSING : JNN 2023; 29:375-386. [PMID: 35965613 PMCID: PMC9359935 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnn.2022.07.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Purpose This study aimed to determine the sociodemographic factors affecting the depression-anxiety-stress levels and coping strategies of parents with babies treated in neonatal intensive care units during the COVID-19 pandemic. Design and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between March and October 2021. The sample consisted of 93 parents. Data were collected using a descriptive questionnaire, the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS- 42), and Coping Style Scale (CSS). Results Participants had mean DASS "depression," "anxiety," and "stress" subscale scores of 13.69 ± 8.86, 12.11 ± 8.37, and 19.09 ± 9.24, respectively. They had mean CSS "self-confident," "optimistic," "helpless," "submissive coping," and "seeking of social support" subscale scores of 2.71 ± 0.65, 2.57 ± 0.59, 2.29 ± 0.62, 2.25 ± 0.49, and 2.38 ± 0.52, respectively. Fathers had lower mean CSS "helpless" and "submissive" subscale scores than mothers. Participants who were briefed about their babies' condition by nurses had lower mean CSS "helpless" and "submissive" subscale scores than others. Participants with higher education had lower mean CSS "helpless" and "submissive" subscale scores than others. Participants with spouses with bachelor's or higher degrees had a higher median CSS "optimistic" subscale score than those with literate spouses or spouses with primary school degrees. Participants who were worried about the "no visitors" policy had a lower median CSS "self-confident" subscale score than those who were not. Conclusions Parents who are not allowed to see their babies due to the "no visitors" policy during the COVID-19 pandemic experience more psychosocial problems. Though not a result of the present study, the "no visitors" policy seems to affect the mother-infant attachment adversely. Practice implications Healthcare professionals should brief parents about what a neonatal intensive care unit is like. They should also warn them that they may not be too happy about how their baby looks before seeing them. Therefore, they should use therapeutic communication techniques to talk to them and explain the situation in a way they can understand. Moreover, they should provide parents with psychological empowerment training programs to help them adopt active coping strategies to deal with challenges in times of crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sevcan T. Kılıç
- Gerontology Department, ÇankırıKaratekin University, Çankırı, Turkey,Corresponding author. Gerontology Deparment, Çankırı Karatekin University, Çankırı, 18200, Turkey
| | - Asena Taşgıt
- Health Ministry of Turkish Republic Ankara City Hospital, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Campbell-Yeo M, Dol J, McCulloch H, Hughes B, Hundert A, Bacchini F, Whitehead L, Afifi J, Alcock L, Bishop T, Dorling J, Earle R, Elliott Rose A, Inglis D, Leighton C, MacRae G, Melanson A, Simpson CD, Smit M. The Impact of Parental Presence Restrictions on Canadian Parents in the NICU During COVID-19: A National Survey. JOURNAL OF FAMILY NURSING 2023; 29:18-27. [PMID: 35915967 PMCID: PMC9850074 DOI: 10.1177/10748407221114326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to explore parental perspectives on the impact of parent restrictions imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic across Canadian Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). A co-designed online survey was conducted targeting parents (n = 235) of infants admitted to a Canadian NICU from March 1, 2020, until March 5, 2021. Parents completed the survey from 38 Canadian NICUs. Large variation in the severity of policies regarding parental presence was reported. Most respondents (68.9%) were classified as experiencing high restrictions, with one or no support people allowed in the NICU, and felt that policies were less easy to understand, felt less valued and respected, and found it more challenging to access medicine or health care. Parents reported gaps in care related to self-care, accessibility, and mental health outcomes. There is significant variation in parental restrictions implemented across Canadian NICUs. National guidelines are needed to support consistent and equitable care practices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jehier Afifi
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS,
Canada
- IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | | | - Jon Dorling
- University Hospital Southampton NHS
Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - C. David Simpson
- Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS,
Canada
- IWK Health, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Franck LS, Kriz RM, Bisgaard R, Gay CL, Sossaman S, Sossaman J, Cormier DM, Joe P, Sasinski JK, Kim JH, Lin C, Sun Y. Parent Readiness for Their Preterm Infant's Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Discharge. J Perinat Neonatal Nurs 2023; 37:68-76. [PMID: 36707751 DOI: 10.1097/jpn.0000000000000612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to examine the influence of hospital experience factors on parental discharge readiness, accounting for key background characteristics. Parents/guardians of infants 33 weeks of gestation or less at birth receiving neonatal intensive care at 6 sites were enrolled from April 2017 to August 2018. Participants completed surveys at enrollment, 3 weeks later, and at discharge. Multiple regression analysis assessed relationships between parental experience, well-being, and perceived readiness for infant discharge, adjusting for socioenvironmental, infant clinical, and parent demographic characteristics. Most (77%) of the 139 parents reported high levels of readiness for their infant's discharge and 92% reported high self-efficacy at discharge. The multiple regression model accounted for 40% of the variance in discharge readiness. Perceptions of family-centered care accounted for 12% of the variance; measures of parent well-being, anxiety, and parenting self-efficacy accounted for an additional 16% of the variance; parent characteristics accounted for an additional 9%; and infant characteristics accounted for less than 3% of the variance. Parental perceptions of the family-centeredness of the hospital experience, anxiety, and parenting self-efficacy accounted for a substantial proportion of the variance in readiness for discharge scores among parents of preterm infant. These influential perceptions are potentially modifiable by nursing-led interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda S Franck
- Department of Family Health Care Nursing and the California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco (Drs Franck and Gay and Ms Kriz); Intensive Care Nursery (Mss Bisgaard and S. Sossaman and Mr J. Sossaman) and Division of Neonatology (Dr Sun), UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, San Francisco, California; Neonatal and Pediatrics, Community Regional Medical Center, Fresno, California (Dr Cormier); Division of Neonatology, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, California (Dr Joe); Intensive Care Nursery, Santa Monica Medical Center, UCLA Health, Santa Monica, California (Ms Sasinski); Division of Neonatology, Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio (Dr Kim); and Division of Neonatology, Kaiser Permanente, Santa Clara, California (Dr Lin)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
O'Neill J, Devsam B, Kinney S, Hawley M, Richards S, Newall F. Exploring the impact of the COVID-19 environment on nursing delivery of family-centred care in a paediatric hospital. J Adv Nurs 2023; 79:320-331. [PMID: 36253941 PMCID: PMC9874628 DOI: 10.1111/jan.15469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To understand how the pandemic environment impacted the delivery of FCC of children and families from a nursing perspective in a major tertiary paediatric hospital. BACKGROUND Family-centred care (FCC) is a well-established framework to promote parental involvement in every aspect of a child's hospitalization, however, rules and restrictions in place during the COVID-19 pandemic affected the ways in which Family-centred Care could be delivered in practice. DESIGN This is a qualitative exploratory descriptive study to elicit the perspective of paediatric nurses delivering care to children in a hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic in Victoria, Australia. METHODS Nurses from all subspecialties in a tertiary paediatric hospital were invited to participate in virtual focus groups to discuss their experience of delivering FCC during the COVID-19 pandemic. Focus groups were recorded and transcribed, then analysed using Framework Analysis. RESULTS Nineteen nurses participated across seven focus groups during June and July 2020. The four themes-Advocating with empathy, Enabling communication, Responding with flexibility, and Balancing competing considerations-and the eight subthemes that were generated, outline how nurses deliver FCC, and how these FCC actions were impacted by the COVID-19 environment and the related hospital restrictions. CONCLUSION This study documents the experiences, resilience and resourcefulness of paediatric nurses in Australia during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as moving Family-centred Care from a theoretical framework into a practical reality. IMPACT The findings from this study should inform consideration of the impacts of public health policies during infectious disease outbreaks moving forward. In addition by describing the core actions of Family-centred Care, this study has implications for educational interventions on how to translate FCC theory into practice. No public or patient contribution as this study explored nursing perceptions only.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jenny O'Neill
- Department of Nursing ResearchThe Royal Children's HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,Department of Nursing, Melbourne School of Health SciencesThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Bianca Devsam
- Department of Nursing ResearchThe Royal Children's HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Sharon Kinney
- Department of Nursing ResearchThe Royal Children's HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,Department of Nursing, Melbourne School of Health SciencesThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Meaghan Hawley
- Department of Nursing ResearchThe Royal Children's HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Stacey Richards
- Department of Nursing ResearchThe Royal Children's HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| | - Fiona Newall
- Department of Nursing ResearchThe Royal Children's HospitalMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,Department of Nursing, Melbourne School of Health SciencesThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia,Department of PaediatricsThe University of MelbourneMelbourneVictoriaAustralia
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
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.
Collapse
|
20
|
Martins MS, Lourenção DCDA, Pimentel RRDS, de Oliveira JM, Manganoti LTDCN, Modesto RC, Silva MSDS, Dos Santos MJ. Recommendations for the safety of hospitalised patients in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e060182. [PMID: 36123068 PMCID: PMC9485646 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-060182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To map the recommendations for hospitalised patient safety in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN Scoping review using the method recommended by the Joanna Briggs Institute. DATA SOURCES Databases: Medline, SCOPUS, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, LILACS, CINAHL and IBECS; grey literature platform: Google Scholar; and 11 official websites of leading healthcare institutions were searched on 27 April 2021 and updated on 11 April 2022. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA We included documents that present recommendations for the safety of hospitalised patients in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, published in any language, from 2020 onwards. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Data extraction was performed in pairs with consensus rounds. A descriptive analysis was carried out to present the main characteristics of the articles. Qualitative data from the extraction of recommendations were analysed through content analysis. RESULTS One hundred and twenty-five documents were included. Most papers were identified as expert consensus (n=56, 44.8%). Forty-six recommendations were identified for the safety of hospitalised patients: 17 relating to the reorganisation of health services related to the flow of patients, the management of human and material resources and the reorganisation of the hospital environment; 11 on the approach to the airways and the prevention of the spread of aerosols; 11 related to sanitary and hygiene issues; 4 about proper use of personal protective equipment and 3 for effective communication. CONCLUSIONS The recommendations mapped in this scoping review present the best practices produced so far and serve as a basis for planning and implementing good practices to ensure safe hospital care, during and after COVID-19. The engagement of everyone involved in the care of hospitalised patients is essential to consolidate the mapped recommendations and provide dignified, safe and quality care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Janine Melo de Oliveira
- Escola de Enfermagem, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Maceio, Brazil
- Curso de Enfermagem, Universidade Estadual de Ciências da Saúde de Alagoas, Maceio, Brazil
| | | | | | | | - Marcelo José Dos Santos
- Career Guidance Department, Universidade de São Paulo Escola de Enfermagem, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Zorro C, MacRae E, Teresa-Palacio M, Williams EE, Aldecoa-Bilbao V, Bhat R, Hickey A, Dassios T, Greenough A. Assessing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on parental satisfaction in two European neonatal intensive care units. BMJ Paediatr Open 2022; 6:10.1136/bmjpo-2021-001396. [PMID: 36645774 PMCID: PMC9490299 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2021-001396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neonatal units across the world have altered their policies to prevent the spread of infection during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our aim was to report parental experience in two European neonatal units during the pandemic. METHODS Parents of infants admitted to each neonatal unit were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. At King's College Hospital, UK (KCH), data were collected prospectively between June 2020 and August 2020 (first wave). At the Hospital Clínic Barcelona (HCM), data were collected retrospectively from parents whose infants were admitted between September 2020 and February 2021 (second and third wave). RESULTS A total of 74 questionnaires were completed (38 from KCH and 36 from HCM). The parents reported that they were fully involved or involved in the care of their infants in 34 (89.4%) responses in KCH and 33 (91.6%) responses in HCM. Quality time spent with infants during the pandemic was more negatively affected at KCH compared with HCM (n=24 (63.2%) vs n=12 (33.3%)). Parents felt either satisfied or very satisfied with the updates from the clinical care team in 30 (79.0%) responses at KCH and 30 (83.4%) responses in HCM. The parents felt that the restrictions negatively affected breast feeding in six (15.8%) responses at KCH and two (5.6%) responses in HCM. Travelling to the hospital was reported overall to be sometimes difficult (39.2%); this did not differ between the two units (14 (36.8%) respondents at KCH and 15 (41.6%) from HCM). Furthermore, the self-reported amount of time spent giving kangaroo care also did not differ between the two countries. CONCLUSION Restrictive policies implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on the perception of quality of time spent by parents with their newborns admitted to neonatal units.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Zorro
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Eva MacRae
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Marta Teresa-Palacio
- Neonatology Department, Barcelona Clinic University Hospital Biomedical Diagnosis Center, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Emma E Williams
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Victoria Aldecoa-Bilbao
- Neonatology Department, Barcelona Clinic University Hospital Biomedical Diagnosis Center, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ravindra Bhat
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Ann Hickey
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Theodore Dassios
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Anne Greenough
- Department of Women and Children's Health, King's College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
van Veenendaal NR, Labrie NH, Mader S, van Kempen AAMW, van der Schoor SRD, van Goudoever JB. An international study on implementation and facilitators and barriers for parent-infant closeness in neonatal units. Pediatr Investig 2022; 6:179-188. [PMID: 36203512 PMCID: PMC9523817 DOI: 10.1002/ped4.12339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Importance Parent-infant closeness and active parent participation in neonatal care are important for parent and infant health. Objective To give an overview of current neonatal settings and gain an in-depth understanding of facilitators and barriers to parent-infant closeness, zero-separation, in 19 countries. Methods Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) professionals, representing 45 NICUs from a range of geographic regions in Europe and Canada, were purposefully selected and interviewed June-December 2018. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify, analyze and report patterns (themes) for parent-infant closeness across the entire series of interviews. Results Parent-infant separation during infant and/or maternity care is very common (42/45 units, 93%), despite the implementation of family integrated care (FICare) practices, including parent participation in medical rounds (17/45, 38%), structured education sessions for parents (16/45, 36%) and structured training for healthcare professionals (22/45, 49%). NICU professionals encountered four main themes with facilitators and barriers for parent-infant closeness on and between the hospital, unit, staff, and family level: Culture (jointly held characteristics, values, thinking and behaviors about parental presence and participation in the unit), Collaboration (the act of working together between and within different levels), Capacities (resources and policies), and Coaching (education to acquire and transfer knowledge and skills). Interpretation Implementing parent-infant closeness in the NICU is still challenging for healthcare professionals. Further optimization in neonatal care towards zero-separation and parent-infant closeness can be achieved by enforcing the 'four Cs for Closeness': Culture, Collaboration, Capacities, and Coaching.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole R. van Veenendaal
- Department of Pediatrics and NeonatologyOLVGAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit and location University of AmsterdamDepartment of Pediatrics, Emma Children's HospitalAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Nanon H.M. Labrie
- Department of Pediatrics and NeonatologyOLVGAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Language, Literature and CommunicationVrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Silke Mader
- European Foundation for Care of Newborn InfantsMunichGermany
| | | | | | - Johannes B. van Goudoever
- Amsterdam UMC, location Vrije Universiteit and location University of AmsterdamDepartment of Pediatrics, Emma Children's HospitalAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Achmat B, Gerber B. Challenges to infection control in early communication intervention: A scoping review. SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION DISORDERS 2022; 69:e1-e14. [PMID: 36073070 PMCID: PMC9453695 DOI: 10.4102/sajcd.v69i2.911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Personal protective equipment (PPE) and infection prevention and control (IPC) measures are crucial to preventing the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). This study used a scoping review to investigate the challenges that exist when speech–language therapists (SLTs) use IPC measures for providing early communication intervention (ECI).Objectives: To describe existing, recent literature on PPE and IPC measures used in early intervention through a scoping review (steps 1–5) and to consult local clinicians to investigate how SLTs who provide ECI in South Africa relate to these findings (step 6 of the scoping review).Method: A scoping review was performed which followed the PRISMA-ScR framework. Because of limited literature on PPE and IPC measures used by SLTs in providing ECI, the inclusion criteria were adjusted to include PPE and IPC measures used by healthcare workers (HCWs) who provide early intervention to the population of infants and toddlers up to 3 years old. At the time of the review, articles were not older than 10 years and were published between 2011 and 2020. The scoping review included a consultation with South African SLTs who provide ECI, including during the COVID-19 pandemic. A pilot study was conducted prior to the consultations. Seventeen clinicians were included in total. Data from both the pilot study and main consultation were transcribed and analysed in the results using thematic analysis.Results: Fourteen articles were included in the study. The scoping review of existing literature identified challenges to implementing IPC measures, namely the care and behaviour of young children, infrastructure and system challenges, poor compliance and lack of training and a lack of standard IPC protocols. Clinicians in the consultation phase confirmed these challenges and reported that IPC measures did not consider ECI populations nor the settings in which services were provided. Suggestions from the literature for improved infection control included hand hygiene, improved supplies and infrastructure and education and training. Clinicians in the consultation added practical suggestions for implementing IPC measures within ECI, which included an increase in parent-led intervention as well as cleaning and disinfection strategies.Conclusion: This study identified challenges and recommendations of SLTs who use PPE and IPC measures whilst providing ECI. Understanding these challenges can benefit ECI services and future research efforts focused on improving ECI services whilst maintaining IPC standards.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bilqees Achmat
- Division of Speech-Language and Hearing Therapy, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Tygerberg.
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Adama EA, Koliouli F, Provenzi L, Feeley N, van Teijlingen E, Ireland J, Thomson-Salo F, Khashu M. COVID-19 restrictions and psychological well-being of fathers with infants admitted to NICU-An exploratory cross-sectional study. Acta Paediatr 2022; 111:1771-1778. [PMID: 35708125 PMCID: PMC9349861 DOI: 10.1111/apa.16455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Revised: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To describe the impact of the COVID-19 restrictions on the caregiving activities and psychological well-being of fathers with infants admitted to neonatal units. METHODS Cross-sectional study using adapted COPE-IS and COPE-IU tools. Participants' recruitment occurred online via social media and parents' associations. Online survey in English, French and Italian were distributed and promoted via websites and social media platforms of parent's associations. The study was undertaken across 12 countries in Asia, Australia, Africa and Europe. RESULTS A total of 108 fathers of NICU infants completed the survey. COVID-19 related restrictions were categorised into 3 types: no restrictions, partial and severe restrictions. Fathers who experienced partial restrictions reported more involvement in caregiving activities but high levels of emotional difficulties and sleeping problems compared to those who experienced full or no restrictions. CONCLUSION Given the impact on the psychological well-being of fathers, restrictions should be avoided as much as possible in the neonatal unit and fathers given free access to their infants if they follow appropriate infection control precautions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther Abena Adama
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Flora Koliouli
- Laboratory of Qualitative Research in Psychology and Mental Health, Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Livio Provenzi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy.,Developmental Psychobiology Research Center, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Nancy Feeley
- Ingram School of Nursing, and Centre for Nursing Research, & Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Minesh Khashu
- University Hospitals Dorset and Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Xyrichis A, Pattison N, Ramsay P, Saha S, Cook A, Metaxa V, Meyer J, Rose L. Virtual visiting in intensive care during the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative descriptive study with ICU clinicians and non-ICU family team liaison members. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e055679. [PMID: 35487757 PMCID: PMC9058291 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-055679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand the experiences and perceived benefits of virtual visiting from the perspectives of intensive care unit (ICU)-experienced clinicians and non-ICU-experienced family liaison team members. DESIGN Qualitative descriptive study. SETTING Adult intensive care setting across 14 hospitals within the UK National Health Service. PARTICIPANTS ICU-experienced clinicians and non-ICU-experienced family liaison team members deployed during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS Semistructured telephone/video interviews were conducted with ICU clinicians. Analytical themes were developed inductively following a standard thematic approach, using 'family-centred care' and 'sensemaking' as sensitising concepts. RESULTS We completed 36 interviews, with 17 ICU-experienced clinicians and 19 non-ICU-experienced family liaison team members. In the context of inperson visiting restrictions, virtual visiting offered an alternative conduit to (1) restoring the family unit, (2) facilitating family involvement, and (3) enabling sensemaking for the family. Virtual visits with multiple family members concurrently and with those living in distant geographical locations restored a sense of family unit. Family involvement in rehabilitation, communication and orientation activities, as well as presence at the end of life, highlighted how virtual visiting could contribute to family-centred care. Virtual visits were emotionally challenging for many family members, but also cathartic in helping make sense of their own emotions and experience by visualising their relatives in the ICU. Being able to see and interact with loved ones and their immediate care providers afforded important cues to enable family sensemaking of the ICU experience. CONCLUSIONS In this UK qualitative study of clinicians using virtual ICU visiting, in the absence of inperson visiting, virtual visiting was perceived positively as an alternative that promoted family-centred care through virtual presence. We anticipate the perceived benefits of virtual visiting may extend to non-pandemic conditions through improved equity and timeliness of family access to the ICU by offering an alternative option alongside inperson visiting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Xyrichis
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery, and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, England, UK
| | | | - Pam Ramsay
- School of Health Sciences, University of Dundee, Dundee, Scotland, UK
| | - Sian Saha
- ACET Research Team, King's College Hospital, London, England, UK
| | - Amelia Cook
- Cicely Saunders Institute, King's College London, London, England, UK
| | | | - Joel Meyer
- Guy's and St Thomas' Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Louise Rose
- Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery, and Palliative Care, King's College London, London, England, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Kostenzer J, von Rosenstiel-Pulver C, Hoffmann J, Walsh A, Mader S, Zimmermann LJI. Parents' experiences regarding neonatal care during the COVID-19 pandemic: country-specific findings of a multinational survey. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e056856. [PMID: 35393317 PMCID: PMC8990262 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-056856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted healthcare systems, challenging neonatal care provision globally. Curtailed visitation policies are known to negatively affect the medical and emotional care of sick, preterm and low birth weight infants, compromising the achievement of the 2030 Development Agenda. Focusing on infant and family-centred developmental care (IFCDC), we explored parents' experiences of the disruptions affecting newborns in need of special or intensive care during the first year of the pandemic. DESIGN Cross-sectional study using an electronic, web-based questionnaire. SETTING Multicountry online-survey. METHODS Data were collected between August and November 2020 using a pretested online, multilingual questionnaire. The target group consisted of parents of preterm, sick or low birth weight infants born during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic and who received special/intensive care. The analysis followed a descriptive quantitative approach. RESULTS In total, 1148 participants from 12 countries (Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Italy, Mexico, New Zealand, Poland, Sweden, Turkey and Ukraine) were eligible for analysis. We identified significant country-specific differences, showing that the application of IFCDC is less prone to disruptions in some countries than in others. For example, parental presence was affected: 27% of the total respondents indicated that no one was allowed to be present with the infant receiving special/intensive care. In Australia, Canada, France, New Zealand and Sweden, both the mother and the father (in more than 90% of cases) were allowed access to the newborn, whereas participants indicated that no one was allowed to be present in China (52%), Poland (39%), Turkey (49%) and Ukraine (32%). CONCLUSIONS The application of IFCDC during the COVID-19 pandemic differs between countries. There is an urgent need to reconsider separation policies and to strengthen the IFCDC approach worldwide to ensure that the 2030 Development Agenda is achieved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Kostenzer
- Scientific Affairs, European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Julia Hoffmann
- Scientific Affairs, European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants, Munich, Germany
| | - Aisling Walsh
- Scientific Affairs, European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants, Munich, Germany
| | - Silke Mader
- Scientific Affairs, European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants, Munich, Germany
| | - Luc J I Zimmermann
- Scientific Affairs, European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants, Munich, Germany
- Department of Paediatrics, Research School Oncology and Development, Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Wesołowska A, Orczyk-Pawiłowicz M, Bzikowska-Jura A, Gawrońska M, Walczak B. Protecting Breastfeeding during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Scoping Review of Perinatal Care Recommendations in the Context of Maternal and Child Well-Being. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:3347. [PMID: 35329035 PMCID: PMC8949921 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this scoping review is to determine to what extent the recommendations on perinatal care protect breastfeeding during the COVID-19 pandemic. The review follows the PRISMA ScR Extension guidelines. The research was conducted in Scopus, Medline via Pubmed, and Web of Science databases from 1 March 2020 to 31 May 2021, using 392 combinations of keywords. We searched for reviews and original papers published in English providing recommendations on delivery mode, companion during labor, the possibility of skin-to-skin contact (SSC), breastfeeding, and visitors policy. After screening, 86 out of 8416 publications qualified for data extraction. The majority of them indicated that COVID-19 infection is not a sufficient reason for a cesarean section; however, on a national level, cesarean births in severely ill patients were overrepresented. A significant number of recommendations deprived mothers of the necessary support during their labor and stay in the maternity ward. A shared decision-making model was hardly visible. Only the earliest COVID-19 recommendations suspended direct breastfeeding; in later publications, decisions were related to the mother's health, but other options of natural feeding were rarely discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Wesołowska
- Laboratory of Human Milk and Lactation Research at Regional Human Milk Bank in Holy Family Hospital, Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Warsaw, Litewska 14/16, 00-575 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.); (A.B.-J.)
- Human Milk Bank Foundation, Podkowy Str. 128 J, 04-937 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Magdalena Orczyk-Pawiłowicz
- Department of Biochemistry and Immunochemistry, Division of Chemistry and Immunochemistry, Wroclaw Medical University, M. Skłodowskiej-Curie 48/50, 50-369 Wrocław, Poland;
| | - Agnieszka Bzikowska-Jura
- Laboratory of Human Milk and Lactation Research at Regional Human Milk Bank in Holy Family Hospital, Department of Medical Biology, Medical University of Warsaw, Litewska 14/16, 00-575 Warsaw, Poland; (A.W.); (A.B.-J.)
| | - Małgorzata Gawrońska
- Human Milk Bank Foundation, Podkowy Str. 128 J, 04-937 Warsaw, Poland;
- Faculty of Sociology, University of Warsaw, Karowa 18, 00-927 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Bartłomiej Walczak
- Institute of Applied Social Sciences, University of Warsaw, Nowy Świat 69, 00-927 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Vance AJ, Malin KJ, Benjamin A, Shuman CJ, Moore TA, Costa DK. Pandemic visitor policies: Parent reactions and policy implications. Acta Paediatr 2022; 111:604-606. [PMID: 34874577 DOI: 10.1111/apa.16208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ashlee J. Vance
- Center for Health Policy and Health Services Research Henry Ford Health System Detroit Michigan USA
| | - Kathryn J. Malin
- Children's Hospital of Wisconsin College of Nursing Marquette University Milwaukee Wisconsin USA
| | | | - Clayton J. Shuman
- School of Nursing Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan USA
| | - Tiffany A. Moore
- College of Nursing University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha Nebraska USA
| | - Deena K. Costa
- School of Nursing Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation University of Michigan Ann Arbor Michigan USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Erdei C, Feldman N, Koire A, Mittal L, Liu CHJ. COVID-19 Pandemic Experiences and Maternal Stress in Neonatal Intensive Care Units. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9020251. [PMID: 35204971 PMCID: PMC8870163 DOI: 10.3390/children9020251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 compounds the already high levels of psychological distress experienced by NICU mothers. We aimed to describe the rates of NICU-related maternal stress during the COVID-19 pandemic and to determine how COVID-19 experiences correlate with high levels of stress experienced by NICU mothers. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis based on responses to a nationwide online survey to understand the relationship between COVID-19-related experiences and the stress experienced by mothers of infants admitted to U.S. NICUs (n = 108) during the pandemic. Results indicate that 61.9% of surveyed mothers reported experiencing high levels of stress on the Parental Stressor Scale: NICU. COVID-19-related grief was significantly associated with higher levels of maternal stress, as it related to seeing the baby’s appearance and behavior in the NICU and exposure to sights and sounds within the NICU environment. No significant associations were noted between parental stress and COVID-19-related health worries or worries about resources. Of note, our recruitment relied on convenience sampling, limiting the generalizability of study results. In conclusion, mothers who experience COVID-19-related grief appear to be more vulnerable to NICU-related stress. Prioritizing parent involvement and enhancing psychosocial support are essential strategies to mitigate the long-term consequences of heightened stress for NICU families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carmina Erdei
- Department of Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (N.F.); (A.K.); (L.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +617-732-5420
| | - Natalie Feldman
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (N.F.); (A.K.); (L.M.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Amanda Koire
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (N.F.); (A.K.); (L.M.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Leena Mittal
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (N.F.); (A.K.); (L.M.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| | - Cindy Hsin Ju Liu
- Department of Newborn Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA;
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (N.F.); (A.K.); (L.M.)
- Department of Psychiatry, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA 02215, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Ryan L, Plötz FB, van den Hoogen A, Latour JM, Degtyareva M, Keuning M, Klingenberg C, Reiss IKM, Giannoni E, Roehr C, Gale C, Molloy EJ. Neonates and COVID-19: state of the art : Neonatal Sepsis series. Pediatr Res 2022; 91:432-439. [PMID: 34961785 PMCID: PMC8712275 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-021-01875-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has had a significant impact worldwide, particularly in middle- and low-income countries. While this impact has been well-recognized in certain age groups, the effects, both direct and indirect, on the neonatal population remain largely unknown. There are placental changes associated, though the contributions to maternal and fetal illness have not been fully determined. The rate of premature delivery has increased and SARS-CoV-2 infection is proportionately higher in premature neonates, which appears to be related to premature delivery for maternal reasons rather than an increase in spontaneous preterm labor. There is much room for expansion, including long-term data on outcomes for affected babies. Though uncommon, there has been evidence of adverse events in neonates, including Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children, associated with COVID-19 (MIS-C). There are recommendations for reduction of viral transmission to neonates, though more research is required to determine the role of passive immunization of the fetus via maternal vaccination. There is now considerable evidence suggesting that the severe visitation restrictions implemented early in the pandemic have negatively impacted the care of the neonate and the experiences of both parents and healthcare professionals alike. Ongoing collaboration is required to determine the full impact, and guidelines for future management. IMPACT: Comprehensive review of current available evidence related to impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on neonates, effects on their health, impact on their quality of care and indirect influences on their clinical course, including comparisons with other age groups. Reference to current evidence for maternal experience of infection and how it impacts the fetus and then neonate. Outline of the need for ongoing research, including specific areas in which there are significant gaps in knowledge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Ryan
- Neonatology, CHI at Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Frans B Plötz
- Department of Paediatrics, Tergooi Hospital, Blaricum, The Netherlands
- Department of Paediatrics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Agnes van den Hoogen
- Division Woman and Baby, Neonatology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht & Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jos M Latour
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK
| | - Marina Degtyareva
- Department of Neonatology, Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Maya Keuning
- Department of Paediatrics, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Claus Klingenberg
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescence Medicine, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Paediatric Research Group, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Irwin K M Reiss
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eric Giannoni
- Neonatology, Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Charles Roehr
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Clinical Trials Unit, Department of Population Health, Medical Sciences Division, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher Gale
- Neonatal Medicine, School of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Campus, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Eleanor J Molloy
- Neonatology, CHI at Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland.
- Discipline of Paediatrics, Trinity College Dublin, the University of Dublin & Children's Hospital Ireland (CHI) at Tallaght, Dublin, Ireland.
- Trinity Translational Medicine Institute, St James Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
- Trinity Research in Childhood Centre (TRiCC), Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- Paediatrics, Coombe Women's and Infant's University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Kostenzer J, Zimmermann LJI, Mader S, Daly M, Fügenschuh S, Gizzi C, Hoffmann J, van den Hoogen A, Khonyongwa-Fernandez G, Kinney M, Kostenzer J, Mader S, Mondry K, Moretti C, Okay I, Pussell K, Roehr CC, von Rosenstiel-Pulver C, Vavouraki E, Walker K, Walsh A, Zimmermann LJI. Zero separation: infant and family-centred developmental care in times of COVID-19. THE LANCET. CHILD & ADOLESCENT HEALTH 2022; 6:7-8. [PMID: 34798061 PMCID: PMC9764501 DOI: 10.1016/s2352-4642(21)00340-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Kostenzer
- European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants, 81379 Munich, Germany
| | - Luc J I Zimmermann
- European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants, 81379 Munich, Germany
| | - Silke Mader
- European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants, 81379 Munich, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
The Implications of COVID-19 on Family-Centered Care in the NICU. Neonatal Netw 2022; 41:45-50. [PMID: 35105794 DOI: 10.1891/nn-2021-0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
During the recent COVID-19 pandemic, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) issued strict visiting policies that limited parent visitation and impacted how family-centered care was practiced. This article describes how these visiting policies impacted parents and neonates. Implications for clinical practice and future research will also be discussed.
Collapse
|
33
|
Meesters N, van Dijk M, Sampaio de Carvalho F, Haverman L, Reiss IKM, Simons SHP, van den Bosch GE. COVID-19 lockdown impacts the wellbeing of parents with infants on a Dutch neonatal intensive care unit. J Pediatr Nurs 2022; 62:106-112. [PMID: 34642075 PMCID: PMC8482115 DOI: 10.1016/j.pedn.2021.09.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Parents of infants admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) experience additional stress due to restrictions on their presence and visits by other family members during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our study aims to describe how this impacted parents and how NICU staff could support them. DESIGN AND METHODS This was a cross-sectional study in which 25 parents (16 mothers, 9 fathers) of infants admitted to our NICU during the first COVID-19 lockdown completed online questionnaires with socio-demographic questions, the Parental Stressor Scale:NICU (PSS:NICU) and questions related to COVID-19. RESULTS Being separated from, and not being able to hold their infant at all times were among the most important PSS:NICU stressors. Parents experienced additional stress because other family members were not allowed to visit. They indicated that NICU staff could support them by clearly explaining the reasons for visitor restrictions and by ensuring that they felt heard. Most parents supported the restrictions, but also mentioned that less strict measures would really help them. CONCLUSIONS Parents who participated in this study found it very stressful that they could not be with their infant together with their partner and other family members. Furthermore, parents recommended the hospital management to continuously reconsider whether particular restrictions could be lifted in case of a new lockdown. Together with clear communication, this would result in less parenteral stress. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS Hospital management should be cautious on restricting the presence of parents and other family members and scale restrictions back whenever possible.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Meesters
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC -Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Monique van Dijk
- Intensive Care and Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC -Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Fernanda Sampaio de Carvalho
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC -Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lotte Haverman
- Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry & Psychosocial Care, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Irwin K M Reiss
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC -Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sinno H P Simons
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC -Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Gerbrich E van den Bosch
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC -Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
McCulloch H, Campbell-Yeo M, Richardson B, Dol J, Hundert A, Dorling J, Whitehead L, MacRae G, Bishop T, Afifi J, Earle R, Rose AE, Foye S, Inglis D, Kim T, Leighton C, Melanson A, Simpson DC, Smit M. The Impact of Restrictive Family Presence Policies in Response to COVID-19 on Family Integrated Care in the NICU: A Qualitative Study. HERD-HEALTH ENVIRONMENTS RESEARCH & DESIGN JOURNAL 2021; 15:49-62. [PMID: 34931565 PMCID: PMC9072949 DOI: 10.1177/19375867211065178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: To conduct a needs assessment with families and their healthcare team to understand the impact of restrictive family presence policies in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) in response to COVID-19. Background: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, significant restrictive family presence policies were instituted in most NICUs globally intended to protect infants, families, and HCPs. However, knowledge on the impact of the stress of the pandemic and policies restricting family presence in the NICU on vulnerable neonates and their families remains limited. Methods: Individuals were eligible to participate if they were a caregiver of an infant requiring NICU care or a healthcare provider (HCP) in the NICU after March 1, 2020. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using a virtual communication platform, and transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic qualitative content analysis. Results: Twenty-three participants were interviewed (12 families and 11 HCPs). Three themes emerged: (1) successes (family-integrated care, use of technology), (2) challenges (lack of standardized messaging and family engagement, impact on parental wellbeing, institutional barriers, and virtual care), and (3) moving forward (responsive and supportive leadership). Conclusions: Our findings highlight the significant impact of family restrictions on the mental well-being of families, physical closeness with parents, and empathetic stress to HCPs. Further study of potential long-term impact is warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marsha Campbell-Yeo
- IWK Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Brianna Richardson
- Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Justine Dol
- IWK Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Sarah Foye
- IWK Health, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mike Smit
- School of Information Management, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
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.
Collapse
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
| | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Kynø NM, Fugelseth D, Knudsen LMM, Tandberg BS. Starting parenting in isolation a qualitative user-initiated study of parents' experiences with hospitalization in Neonatal Intensive Care units during the COVID-19 pandemic. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258358. [PMID: 34714832 PMCID: PMC8555791 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, strict infection control measures including visitation regulations were implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic at Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs). These regulations gave restricted access for parents to their hospitalized infants. The consequence was limited ability to involve in the care of their infants. At Oslo University Hospital entry to NICU was denied to all except healthy mothers in March 2020. The absolute access ban for fathers lasted for 10 weeks. The aim of this study was to explore parental experiences with an infant hospitalized in the NICU during this absolute visitation ban period. METHODS We invited post discharge all parents of surviving infants that had been hospitalized for at least 14 days to participate. They were interviewed during autumn 2020 using an explorative semi-structured interview approach. Data were analyzed via inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS Nine mothers and four fathers participated. The COVID-19 regulations strongly impacted the parent's experiences of their stay. The fathers' limited access felt life-impacting. Parents struggled to become a family and raised their voices to be heard. Not being able to experience parenthood together led to emotional loneliness. The fathers struggled to learn how to care for their infant. The regulations might lead to a postponed attachment. On the other hand, of positive aspect the parents got some quietness. Being hospitalized during this first wave was experienced as exceptional and made parents seeking alliances by other parents. Social media was used to keep in contact with the outside world. CONCLUSIONS The regulations had strong negative impact on parental experiences during the NICU hospitalization. The restriction to fathers' access to the NICU acted as a significant obstacle to early infant-father bonding and led to loneliness and isolation by the mothers. Thus, these COVID-19 measures might have had adverse consequences for families.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina M. Kynø
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Department of Neonatal Intensive Care, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Nursing and Health Promotion, Acute and Critical Illness, Oslo Metropolitan University, Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Drude Fugelseth
- Division of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Department of Neonatal Intensive Care, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Bente Silnes Tandberg
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Drammen Hospital, Vestre Viken Hospital Trust, Drammen, Norway
- Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Manuela F, Barcos-Munoz F, Monaci MG, Lordier L, Camejo MP, De Almeida JS, Grandjean D, Hüppi PS, Borradori-Tolsa C. Maternal Stress, Depression, and Attachment in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit Before and During the COVID Pandemic: An Exploratory Study. Front Psychol 2021; 12:734640. [PMID: 34659049 PMCID: PMC8517514 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.734640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The main aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mothers' postnatal depression, stress, and attachment during their stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Twenty mothers of very premature infants born before 32weeks of gestational age were recruited at the Geneva University Hospital between January 2018 and February 2020 before the COVID-19 pandemic started. Mothers were screened for postnatal depression after their preterm infant's birth (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, EPDS), then for stress (Parental Stressor Scale: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, PSS:NICU), and attachment (Maternal Postnatal Attachment Scale, MPAS) at infant's term-equivalent age. Data were compared with 14 mothers recruited between November 2020 and June 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic. No significant differences were found in the scores for depression, stress, and attachment between the two groups. However, a non-statistically significant trend showed a general increase of depression symptoms in mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly correlated to the attachment and stress scores. Moreover, the PSS:NICU Sights and Sounds score was significantly positively correlated with EPDS scores and negatively with the MPAS score only in the During-COVID group. To conclude, we discussed a possible dampened effect of the several protective family-based actions that have been adopted in the Geneva University Hospital during the health crisis, and we discussed the most appropriate interventions to support parents in this traumatic period during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Filippa Manuela
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Neuroscience of Emotion and Affective Dynamics Lab, Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Valle d’Aosta, Aosta, Italy
| | - Francisca Barcos-Munoz
- Division of Pediatric Intensive Care and Neonatology, Department of Women, Children and Adolescents, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maria Grazia Monaci
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, University of Valle d’Aosta, Aosta, Italy
| | - Lara Lordier
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maricé Pereira Camejo
- Division of Pediatric Intensive Care and Neonatology, Department of Women, Children and Adolescents, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Joana Sa De Almeida
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Didier Grandjean
- Neuroscience of Emotion and Affective Dynamics Lab, Swiss Center for Affective Sciences, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Petra S. Hüppi
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Cristina Borradori-Tolsa
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Kostenzer J, Hoffmann J, von Rosenstiel-Pulver C, Walsh A, Zimmermann LJ, Mader S. Neonatal care during the COVID-19 pandemic - a global survey of parents' experiences regarding infant and family-centred developmental care. EClinicalMedicine 2021; 39:101056. [PMID: 34401688 PMCID: PMC8355909 DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2021.101056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The COVID-19 pandemic restrictions affect provision and quality of neonatal care. This global study explores parents' experiences regarding the impact of the restrictions on key characteristics of infant and family-centred developmental care (IFCDC) during the first year of the pandemic. METHODS For this cross-sectional study, a pre-tested online survey with 52 questions and translated into 23 languages was used to collect data between August and November 2020. Parents of sick or preterm infants born during the pandemic and receiving special/intensive care were eligible for participation. Data analysis included descriptive statistics and statistical testing based on different levels of restrictive measures. FINDINGS In total, 2103 participants from 56 countries provided interpretable data. Fifty-two percent of respondents were not allowed to have another person present during birth. Percentages increased with the extent of restrictions in the respondents' country of residence (p = 0·002). Twenty-one percent of total respondents indicated that no-one was allowed to be present with the infant receiving special/intensive care. The frequency (p < 0·001) and duration (p = 0·001) of permitted presence largely depended on the extent of restrictions. The more restrictive the policy measures were, the more the respondents worried about the pandemic situation during pregnancy and after birth. INTERPRETATION COVID-19 related restrictions severely challenged evidence-based cornerstones of IFCDC, such as separating parents/ legal guardians and their newborns. Our findings must therefore be considered by public health experts and policy makers alike to reduce unnecessary suffering, calling for a zero separation policy. FUNDING EFCNI received an earmarked donation by Novartis Pharma AG in support of this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Kostenzer
- European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI), Scientific Affairs, Hofmannstrasse 7A, Munich 81379, Germany
| | - Julia Hoffmann
- European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI), Scientific Affairs, Hofmannstrasse 7A, Munich 81379, Germany
| | | | - Aisling Walsh
- European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI), Scientific Affairs, Hofmannstrasse 7A, Munich 81379, Germany
| | - Luc J.I. Zimmermann
- European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI), Scientific Affairs, Hofmannstrasse 7A, Munich 81379, Germany
- Department of Paediatrics, Research School Oncology and Development, Maastricht UMC+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Silke Mader
- European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI), Scientific Affairs, Hofmannstrasse 7A, Munich 81379, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Waddington C, van Veenendaal NR, O’Brien K, Patel N. Family integrated care: Supporting parents as primary caregivers in the neonatal intensive care unit. Pediatr Investig 2021; 5:148-154. [PMID: 34179713 PMCID: PMC8212757 DOI: 10.1002/ped4.12277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Family integrated care (FICare) is a collaborative model of neonatal care which aims to address the negative impacts of the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) environment by involving parents as equal partners, minimizing separation, and supporting parent-infant closeness. FICare incorporates psychological, educational, communication, and environmental strategies to support parents to cope with the NICU environment and to prepare them to be able to emotionally, cognitively, and physically care for their infant. FICare has been associated with improved infant feeding, growth, and parent wellbeing and self-efficacy; important mediators for long-term improved infant neurodevelopmental and behavioural outcomes. FICare implementation requires multi-disciplinary commitment, staff motivation, and sufficient time for preparation and readiness for change as professionals relinquish power and control to instead develop collaborative partnerships with parents. Successful FICare implementation and culture change have been applied by neonatal teams internationally, using practical approaches suited to their local environments. Strategies such as parent and staff meetings and relational communication help to break down barriers to change by providing space for the co-creation of knowledge, the negotiation of caregiving roles and the development of trusting relationships. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the vulnerability within programs supporting parental presence in neonatal units and the profound impacts of parent-infant separation. New technologies and digital innovations can help to mitigate these challenges, and support renewed efforts to embed FICare philosophy and practice in neonatal care during the COVID-19 recovery and beyond.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicole R. van Veenendaal
- OLVGAmsterdamthe Netherlands
- Emma Children’s HospitalAmsterdam UMCUniversity of AmsterdamVrije UniversiteitAmsterdamthe Netherlands
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|