Using Digital Communication Technology to Improve Neonatal Care: Two-Part Explorative Needs Assessment.

Area of Science:

• Neonatal care
• Digital health interventions
• Parent-provider communication

Background:

• Parental stress is high during infant hospitalization.
• Effective communication is vital for parents of premature infants.
• Mobile health (mHealth) offers potential for improved accessibility and reduced stress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess pediatrician-parent interactions and digital communication needs.
• To explore interest in an mHealth app for enhanced communication.
• To improve information exchange for parents of hospitalized preterm infants.

Main Methods:

• Observation of 19 pediatrician-parent consultations.
• Interviews with parents and pediatricians post-consultation.
• Evaluation of communication processes and app feature preferences.

Main Results:

• Most discussed themes included breastfeeding, discharge, medication, and personal life.
• Parents reported satisfaction with current pediatrician communication.
• Both groups anticipated an mHealth app would enhance communication and hospital stay.

Conclusions:

• An mHealth app could effectively address prevalent communication themes.
• Stakeholders expect improved communication and information exchange with an app.
• Further development and study of an mHealth app are recommended.