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Parent Perspectives on Communication Quality in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.
Katherine F Guttmann1, Gabriella N Raviv, Christine A Fortney
1Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (Dr Guttmann and Ms Raviv); The Ohio State University College of Nursing Martha S. Pitzer Center for Women, Children, and Youth, Columbus, Ohio (Dr Fortney); Research Division, Hebrew Home at Riverdale, Riverdale, New York, USA (Dr Ramirez); Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (Dr Smith); Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine, The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA (Dr Smith and Dr Guttmann).
Parents in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) desire clear, hopeful communication, especially during the critical first 48 hours. Understanding parent communication needs is vital for improving NICU care.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) communication
- Parental experiences in healthcare settings
- Qualitative research in pediatrics
Background:
- Existing literature highlights the need for improved communication in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
- However, detailed insights into parents' perspectives on NICU communication are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore parents' perceptions of communication within the NICU environment.
- To identify parents' specific communication needs and preferences during neonatal hospitalization.
Main Methods:
- Conducted semi-structured cognitive interviews with 10 parents of NICU patients.
- Utilized thematic analysis of interview transcripts to identify key themes.
- Interview questions were based on the Quality of Communication scale.
Main Results:
- Identified four main themes: Strengths, Challenges, People, and Coping Strategies.
- Parents reported varied communication quality, with the initial 48 hours being a critical period of vulnerability.
- Clear, hopeful communication regarding a baby's status and prognosis is highly valued.
Conclusions:
- Findings can inform current NICU practices and future guidelines.
- Emphasizes the importance of addressing the first 48 hours of hospitalization.
- Recommends proactive information sharing and incorporating hope into communication strategies.
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