Parents’ views on neonatal care provided in an intensive care unit with an open ward setting

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify parents’ views on having an infant being cared for in an open ward setting of a neonatal unit. The objectives were to assess parents’ perceptions of the advantages and drawbacks of having an open ward setting in a neonatal intensive care unit and to identify parents’ views on the communication received from midwives and nurses in such a setting. The study was also interested in investigating parents’ experiences of relating to their infant in an open ward setting of a neonatal unit and in identifying parents’ views on the level of comfort and privacy offered in this setting. A quantitative approach was adopted and data was gathered through the use of a structured, selfreport questionnaire designed specifically for the study. The response rate achieved was that of 84%, representing a convenience sample of 42 parents, mothers and fathers. Data was analysed manually using descriptive statistics and through content analysis. Findings indicated that parents often felt overwhelmed and scared when initially entering the open ward setting of the neonatal unit, but the setting also gave them a sense of safety. Communication between nurses/midwives and parents in this setting was generally felt to be satisfactory, although weaknesses were identified in terms of parental ability to ask questions, and to receive detailed responses. Although overall parents felt that they were able to build a close bond with their infant while at the neonatal and paediatrics intensive care unit, they identified challenges associated with this, including the visiting hours, which were viewed as restrictive at times. Comfort and privacy were also considered to be somewhat compromised in the open ward setting, particularly during breastfeeding, given the close proximity to other families. However, being able to easily meet others who were in a similar situation to their own was considered an advantage of the open ward setting, together with the availability of numerous nurses/midwives. Recommendations for practice, education and further research were proposed, including measures such as the introduction of privacy screens whilst breastfeeding and the use of private rooms for discussions about infant condition, so as to enhance parents’ comfort and privacy whilst visiting their baby within the open ward setting of the neonatal unit.