Readiness of obstetric professionals to inform parents regarding potential outcome of premature infants

Abstract

Parents often regard obstetric professionals as an important source of information regarding prematurity. However, there is no information regarding the readiness of these obstetric professionals to inform expectant parents of the potential outcomes of premature infants. Using a self-report questionnaire, we determined the knowledge of obstetric professionals regarding outcomes of premature infants, and gauged their confidence in providing this information to expectant parents. Some 50% of obstetric professionals reported that they 'struggle to answer parental questions' regarding premature infants. The majority of obstetric professionals correctly identified potential morbidities of prematurity, but compared to neonatal professionals, they were less likely to discuss this information with parents. When they do provide information to parents, obstetric professionals were least likely to discuss neurological morbidities. Our study has identified an important barrier to the effective transfer of neonatal outcomes information to expectant parents. This limitation requires further investigation and intervention.

Smartphone-based prenatal education for parents with preterm birth risk factors

“…The most common risk factors for preterm birth included prior spontaneous preterm birth and multifetal gestation. The median GA at enrollment was 20 (range, [18][19][20][21][22] weeks. Twenty participants were part of a mother/father pair.…”

“…First, obstetric healthcare providers are hesitant to provide premature infant health outcome information to parents, especially regarding neurodevelopmental outcomes. 20,21 Secondly, obstetric healthcare providers are reluctant to risk frightening pregnant women with discussions of potential neonatal death and disability, since most pregnancies will not result in a preterm birth. 22 Finally, there is concern that the parents will not be receptive to anticipatory education unless the threat of preterm birth is a "clear and present danger."…”

Exploring the knowledge of community‐based nurses in supporting parents of preterm babies at home: A survey‐based study

“…Einaudi et al (2013) examined physicians' knowledge in the management of children born extremely preterm, finding a need for information on methods of assessment to inform care. Powell et al (2012) reported that 50% of obstetric professionals found answering parental questions regarding their preterm infants challenging. Parker et al (2012) identified that doctors were unaware of the stress levels felt by parents of preterm babies after discharge and were subsequently unprepared to support them through discharge.…”

“…Powell et al. (2012) reported that 50% of obstetric professionals found answering parental questions regarding their preterm infants challenging. Parker et al.…”