33 A NICU PARENT BOOKLET AND ITS EVALUATION

Abstract

This paper discusses the origins and content of a NICU parent orientation booklet and its evaluation. The booklet (NICU) is given to parents at the time of transport, or birth, of their infant. Its effectiveness was evaluated by questionnaire to 100 parents within two weeks after their neonate's admission. 98 parents read the booklet; 90% of those who read the booklet found it helpful in understanding therapy, routine and special procedures. 74% found it helpful in understanding terms used by the staff. 94% understood visiting and their care-taking roles upon their first visit. 85% found the booklet helpful knowing what to expect and to feel more comfortable during their first visit. 98% felt comfortable in asking questions freely after being prompted to do so by the booklet. Less than 5% felt the pictures made them feel worse. 83% of the transport team, 30% of staff nurses and 20% of housestaff used the booklet to supplement their orientation of families to the NICU. We concluded that a family orientation booklet to a NICU is helpful in preparing families for the events of a NICU admission of their neonate.