Simulation experience was highly rated; parents reported feeling more prepared after the simulation
MONDAY, May 1, 2017 (HealthDay News) — For parents of babies about to be discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit, a simulation experience is associated with feeling more confident, according to a study published in the March/April issue of the American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing.
Deborah A. Raines, Ph.D., from the University of Buffalo in New York, developed the Neonatal Home Environment Learning Program in order to promote confidence in anticipation of infant discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit. Fifteen mother/father dyads were recruited. Before and after the simulation experience, participants recorded a self-perceived confidence score. They also completed evaluation of the program and participated in a debriefing session.
Raines found that the simulation experience was rated highly by parents. Parents shared during debriefings that the simulation had made them feel more prepared. From the debriefing data, the two themes that emerged were that doing it alone was different from what was expected and that confidence was increased.
“A simulation experience for parents helps to ensure a positive transition to home and safe, effective care after discharge of the infant,” Raines writes.
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