Abstract
AimThis study aimed to investigate the confidence levels, knowledge base and learning needs of community‐based nurses relating to the care of preterm babies and parents, to explore what education is required and in what format.DesignAn online survey methodology was used.MethodsA 32‐item questionnaire was distributed via social media platforms to community‐based nurses in Australia.ResultsDescriptive analysis was undertaken relating to knowledge base, confidence levels, previous training, learning and resource needs and barriers to education. It was deemed vital to expand confidence and knowledge in this area. Gaps in learning resources were identified and a need for more training in topics such as developmental outcomes, feeding, expected milestones, weight gain, growth trajectories and supporting parents. Online resources were the preferred format to teach key knowledge to community‐based health professionals, tailored to the specific features of preterm babies and support needs of parents.
Highlights
As survival rates of preterm babies have increased, provision of care and support in the home environment after discharge from hospital- based neonatal care is becoming increasingly crucial (Fowler et al, 2019; Petty et al, 2018)
Green et al (2020) have outlined the difficulties associated with the transition home of the preterm baby and their family, and Sharma et al (2018) have acknowledged how community visits are a vital consideration in supporting families once they are at home
This paper reports on a study that followed on from said research, which aimed to explore confidence levels, knowledge base and learning needs of community-based nurses relating to the care of preterm babies and parents, to explore what education is required and in what format
Summary
As survival rates of preterm babies have increased, provision of care and support in the home environment after discharge from hospital- based neonatal care is becoming increasingly crucial (Fowler et al, 2019; Petty et al, 2018). The provision of ongoing support at home becomes the role of the primary care team which includes family doctors, allied health professionals and, crucially, nurses as a central member of the team. The educational needs of community-based nurses must be addressed to equip them with appropriate knowledge and skills to support these families. This is essential given the high value parents place on the relationship with professionals for Nursing Open. . Limited previous research exists on the perceived gap in health professionals’ knowledge and learning needs relating to supporting parents of preterm babies in community settings. Kuppala et al (2012) and Boss and Hobbs (2013) highlighted a perceived lack of training for doctors in this speciality leaving them feeling unable to care for medically complex babies and their developmental issues
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