A Delphi Survey – Enhancing Parents’ Knowledge and Practice of Kangaroo Mother Care

Abstract

Aim This research aimed to establish directives for an education program that will improve parents’ knowledge and practice of kangaroo mother care (KMC) for preterm babies. Methods The Delphi method was used to assess expert consensus on the directives that could improve parent knowledge/skills for KMC practice. The panel of experts included international and local (South African) representatives. Data from focus group interviews, together with the literature review, were used to populate the 134 statements for the Delphi survey. Panelists rated the likely usefulness of each statement for inclusion as a directive for KMC. Results A 100% response rate was achieved in rounds 1 and 2. After Round 3, consensus was achieved in 89,9% statements for inclusion as directives for KMC. Panelists rated a few statements differently but overall, there was considerable agreement about which statements were essential for inclusion in a KMC program. The statements that panelists disagreed on related to problems associated with KMC and the characteristics of a suitable instructor. Conclusions We identified directives for a KMC education program. The implementation of these directives needs to be evaluated to see that it enhances KMC practice for preterm babies.