An interdisciplinary, family-focused approach to relational learning in neonatal intensive care.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study is to show the efficacy of the Program to Enhance Relational and Communication Skills-Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (PERCS-NICU).


METHODS
In this study, 74 practitioners attended workshops and completed baseline, post-training and follow-up questionnaires.


RESULTS
On yes/no questions, 93 to 100% reported improved preparation, communication skills and confidence post-training and follow-up. A total of 94 and 83% improved their ability to establish relationships, and 76 and 83% reported reduced anxiety post-training and follow-up, respectively. On Likert items, 59 and 64% improved preparation, 45 and 60% improved communication skills and confidence, 25 and 53% decreased anxiety and 16 and 32% improved relationships post-training and follow-up, respectively. Qualitative themes included integrating new communication and relational abilities, honoring the family perspective, appreciating interdisciplinary collaboration, personal/human connection and valuing the learning. In total, 93% applied skills learned, three-quarters transformed practice and 100% recommended PERCS-NICU.


CONCLUSIONS
After PERCS-NICU, clinicians improved preparation, communication and relational abilities, confidence and reduced anxiety when holding difficult neonatal conversations.
Meyer
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Division of Critical Care Medicine, Children's Hospital Boston, Boston, MA, USA. elaine.meyer@childrens.harvard.edu
Brodsky
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Hansen
A R
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Lamiani
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Sellers
D E
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Browning
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DM
D003142:Communication; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015931:Intensive Care, Neonatal / Q000523:psychology*; D008297:Male; D011368:Professional-Family Relations; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires