Parents’ learning needs and preferences in a neonatal intensive care unit: A desire for enhanced communication and eHealth technology

Publication date: Available online 19 September 2019Source: Journal of Neonatal NursingAuthor(s): Joelle Monaghan, Theresa Kim, Justine Dol, Adele Orovec, Marsha Campbell-YeoAbstractThe aim of this study was to explore the learning needs of parents of infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) through descriptive qualitative design. Three focus groups were conducted with thirteen parents. Three main themes were derived following content analysis: Expectations and Uncertainties, Seeking and Learning, and Desires and Preferences. Parents identified a need for greater clarity around their role in the NICU and while healthcare professionals were identified as the foremost trusted source of information in the NICU, parents also voiced concerns related to communication difficulties. Parents attempted to satisfy learning needs online and believed that traditional resources, such as hospital-based pamphlets, be replaced with resources that are virtual, readily accessible, evidence-based and tailored to their individual needs. Education through technology as a supplement to direct health care professional communication may promote optimal health outcomes for infants and families.
Source: Journal of Neonatal Nursing - Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Source Type: research