Developing a Subset of ICNP^® Terminology for NICU and Neonatology Settings

Background/Objectives: The International Classification for Nursing Practice (ICNP^®) is a standardized nursing language that enables the description of nursing care through diagnoses, interventions, and outcomes. An ICNP^® Subset is a sub-group of ICNP^® terms appropriate for settings of practice, facilitating the direct use of the ICNP^® in nursing documentation. As far as we know, there are no Subsets concerning neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) settings. The aim of this study is to develop a Subset of ICNP^® for NICU and neonatology settings, presenting terms that are validated and harmonized with SNOMED CT nomenclature. Methods: This is a two-phase study. In the first phase, ICNP^® terms were validated through a qualitative study using a four-round Delphi method and a focus group involving experts in NICU and neonatology settings and education. The second phase focused on harmonizing the proposed ICNP^® Subset with SNOMED CT. Results: A total of 479 ICNP^® terms belonging to the Diagnosis/Outcome (DC) and Intervention (IC) axes were validated by the experts. Of these, 99.65% were found to be compatible with SNOMED CT. In addition, 97 new terms (30 Diagnoses/Outcomes and 67 Interventions) were validated and are currently awaiting approval by the International Council of Nurses. Of the newly proposed terms, 93.81% were compatible with SNOMED CT. Conclusions: The proposed Subset consists of 576 ICNP^® terms, including 177 Diagnoses/Outcomes and 399 Interventions. Its implementation may support the adoption of electronic health records in neonatal and NICU settings and contribute to improving the quality and standardization of nursing care.