The NeuroSense PremmieEd Parenting Educational Intervention (PremmieSense)-A Neuroprotective Intervention for Preterm...

Area of Science:

• Neonatal care
• Parenting interventions
• Global health

Background:

• Preterm birth impacts 10% of global births, often causing neurodevelopmental issues and affecting parent-infant bonding.
• Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) interventions need adaptation for low-resource settings like South Africa.
• The NeuroSense PremmieEd Parenting Educational Intervention (PremmieSense) was developed to enhance bonding and neuroprotective care in NICU settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the development and components of the PremmieSense intervention using the Template for Intervention Description and Replication (TIDieR) framework.
• To document adaptations and implementation lessons for low-resource NICUs.
• To pilot the PremmieSense intervention in South African NICUs.

Main Methods:

• The PremmieSense program includes a picture-based booklet (English/Setswana) and facilitator-led sessions.
• Pilot study conducted in two public-sector NICUs in South Africa with 60 mothers.
• Parental knowledge (KPIB scale) and stress (PSS:NICU tool) were measured.

Main Results:

• PremmieSense demonstrated feasibility and acceptability in resource-constrained NICUs.
• Logistical challenges (early discharge, staff shortages, language) necessitated pragmatic adaptations.
• The intervention's modular and multilingual design allowed for flexible delivery.

Conclusions:

• PremmieSense shows potential as a culturally relevant and adaptable intervention for resource-limited NICUs.
• Future research should personalize content based on gestational age, parenting experience, and literacy.
• Further implementation and long-term outcome assessments are recommended.