Mobile-Enhanced Family-Integrated Care for Preterm Infants: Nurse and Physician Views About Implementation

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) Care
• Family-Centered Care (FCC)
• Healthcare Delivery Models

Background:

• The mobile-enhanced family-integrated care (mFICare) model was developed to address inconsistencies in family-centered care (FCC).
• mFICare incorporates staff training, parent participation in rounds, parent education, peer mentors, and a parent app.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore NICU nurses' and physicians' perspectives on mFICare implementation.
• To identify successes and areas for improvement in the mFICare model.

Main Methods:

• A survey was administered to registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and physicians at three study sites.
• Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Most respondents positively rated parent-led rounds, classes, and skills acquisition, noting improved nurse-family relationships.
• Familiarity was lower for parent peer mentors and the app; however, parent empowerment was recognized.
• Physicians reported more challenges than nurses with parent participation in rounds. Key themes included emotional support, communication, and unique family experiences.

Conclusions:

• The mFICare program is generally acceptable to NICU healthcare professionals.
• Identified areas for improvement can lead to a sustainable model for enhancing FCC in NICUs.