Co-Designing a Peer Support Program for NICU Parents Using a Participatory Action Research Approach

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) care
• Parental support programs
• Healthcare system co-design

Background:

• Neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) present unique challenges for parents.
• Parental well-being is crucial for infant outcomes in the NICU.
• Existing support structures may not fully address the needs of NICU parents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To co-design a sustainable parental peer-to-peer support program within a level IV NICU.
• To involve all relevant stakeholders, including veteran parents and healthcare professionals (HCPs), in the program's development.
• To ensure the program is appropriate and meets the needs of NICU families.

Main Methods:

• Participatory action research (PAR) involving seven veteran parents and 11 NICU HCPs.
• Seven co-design sessions focused on peer support content, organization, and training.
• Thematic analysis of audio recordings and written materials using inductive and deductive approaches.

Main Results:

• Veteran parents stressed the value of peer support for emotional well-being, empowerment, and practical guidance.
• HCPs identified organizational opportunities aligned with available resources.
• Participants advocated for diverse, adaptable peer support forms and clear role delineation between peers and HCPs.
• Training and supervision were highlighted as essential.

Conclusions:

• A framework for a parental peer support program was successfully developed through collaboration.
• The findings offer actionable recommendations for implementing similar programs in NICU settings.
• This collaborative approach ensures program relevance and sustainability.