The functions of adequate communication in the neonatal care unit: A systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative research

Abstract

ObjectiveTo assess the main functions of parent-provider communication in the neonatal (intensive) care unit (NICU) and determine what adequate communication entails according to both parents and health professionals. MethodsA systematic review and meta-synthesis of qualitative research. PubMed, Ebsco/PsycINFO, Wiley/Cochrane Library, Ebsco/CINAHL, Clarivate Analytics/Web of Science Core Collection, and Elsevier/Scopus were searched in October-November 2019 for records on interpersonal communication between parents and providers in neonatal care. Title/abstract screening and full-text analysis were conducted by multiple, independent coders. Data from included articles were analyzed using deductive and inductive thematic analysis. Results43 records were included. Thematic analysis of data resulted in the development of the NICU Communication Framework, including four functions of communication (1. building/maintaining relationships, 2. exchanging information, 3. (sharing) decision-making, 4. enabling parent self-management) and five factors that contribute to adequate communication across these functions (topic, aims, location, route, design) and, thereby, to tailored parent-provider communication. ConclusionThe NICU Communication Framework fits with the goals of Family Integrated Care to encourage parent participation in infants’ care. This framework forms a first step towards the conceptualization of (adequate) communication in NICU settings. Practice implicationsFindings can be used to improve NICU communication in practice, in particular through the mnemonic TAILORED.