A1 Refereed original research article in a scientific journal
Evaluation of a complex couplet care intervention in a neonatal intensive care unit : A mixed methods study protocol
Authors: Bjerregaard Michella, Axelin Anna, Carlsen Emma Louise Malchau, Birk Hans Okkels, Poulsen Ingrid, Palisz Patrick, Kallemose Thomas, Brødsgaard Anne
Publisher: John Wiley and Sons Inc
Publishing place: kiina
Publication year: 2024
Journal: Pediatric Investigation
Journal name in source: Pediatric Investigation
Volume: 8
Issue: 2
First page : 139
Last page: 148
eISSN: 2574-2272
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/ped4.12420
Web address : https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ped4.12420
Self-archived copy’s web address: https://research.utu.fi/converis/portal/detail/Publication/387380623
Background: Families with an infant in need of intensive care most often experience a harmful separation after birth. This is due to a division of medical specialties into neonatal care and maternal care. Therefore, a couplet care intervention is implemented for mother-infant dyads in a neonatal intensive care unit. This study protocol provides a comprehensive evaluation of the intervention. The aim is to evaluate the effect and implementation of a complex couplet care intervention to promote zero separation between mother and infant.
Methods: The couplet care intervention is a family-centered model of care, where treatment-requiring mother-infant dyads will be admitted together and receive couplet care by neonatal nurses. The study adheres to the framework of the Medical Research Council and will use a mixed methods embedded design comprising a quasi-experimental trial and a qualitative process evaluation. Finally, a health economic evaluation will be conducted to assess the cost-effectiveness of this complex couplet care intervention.
Discussion: Separation of mother-infant dyads after birth has an adverse impact on family health and well-being. This study protocol evaluates a complex couplet care intervention. With this study, a first step is taken to help bridge the gap between current practices and a new care model to prevent the separation of mothers and their infants.
Downloadable publication This is an electronic reprint of the original article. |