Research Week Abstract Book - Northern Health

Women’s Health and Paediatrics
THE TRANSFER OF INFANTS FROM TERTIARY NICus TO COMMUNITY SCNS:
THE PerCEPTIONS AND OPinions OF HEALTH Professionals’ ON ParenTS’
Transfer EXPERIENCES
Women’s Health AND PAEDIAtrics
Ramudu L 1 , McDonald S 2 , Thomas S 3 .
1
Education Department, The Northern Hospital
2
La Trobe University/Mercy Hospital for Women
3
Monash University
Background
Health professionals (HPs) have always acknowledged that the down-transfer of infants from a Neonatal Unit (NICU) to a
Special Care Nursery (SCN) is a difficult period for parents. This study will enable all HPs to be cognisant of the individual
needs of families in all aspects of the down-transfer process.
Aim
The aim of this study was to explore the views of health professionals (HPs) at the NICUs and SCNs, and to gain an insight
into their perspectives of parents’ experiences.
Methodology
A descriptive exploratory qualitative method was utilised in this study. An Interview Schedule was used to elicit the opinions of
80 HPs through focus groups at six study sites. The common themes were analysed and categorised using directed content
analysis.
Results
The four main themes categorised were Causes of Transfer Stress, Setting the Scene for Transfer and Relationships. Parent
stressors, the quality of the pre-transfer and transition preparation, communication of information in a positive manner, and a
show of support and trust for the SCN were factors that influenced parents’ acceptance to the transfer. This was hindered if
HPs were unaware of the environment they were preparing parents for, or if they worked within systems under pressure. This
affected the timely preparation for transfer and the reception of parents at the SCN.
Conclusion
The knowledge gained from this research will enable HPs to review current practices and processes related to down-transfer.
Ten recommendations are offered to support parents for the down-transfer.
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