The study titled "A journey through follow-up for neurodevelopmentally at-risk infants—A qualitative study on views of parents and professionals in Liverpool" by Komoriyama et al. (2019) offers invaluable insights into the follow-up care of neurodevelopmentally at-risk infants. This research highlights the perspectives of both parents and professionals, shedding light on the essential components of effective follow-up care. As practitioners dedicated to creating great outcomes for children, it is crucial to implement these findings to enhance our practice and provide holistic support to families.
Key Themes from the Study
The research identified three major themes from the perspectives of both parents and professionals:
- What is the future? – Parents expressed a need for early and clear information regarding their child's prognosis. They emphasized the importance of honest, face-to-face consultations supplemented by accessible online resources.
- What is the journey? – Both parents and professionals highlighted the necessity for consistent follow-up pathways. Parents particularly valued honesty and reassurance throughout the process.
- Who can help me? – There was a strong desire for a lead professional to coordinate the follow-up care. Additionally, support groups and psychological support were deemed critical to the overall well-being of the family.
Implementing Research Findings in Practice
To improve the outcomes for neurodevelopmentally at-risk infants, practitioners can take several actionable steps based on the study's findings:
1. Provide Early and Clear Information
Parents in the study expressed a need for early, accurate information about their child's prognosis. Practitioners should:
- Conduct honest, face-to-face consultations to discuss the child's condition and expected outcomes.
- Develop and share online resources that provide detailed, accessible information for parents.
2. Ensure Consistent Follow-Up Pathways
Consistency in follow-up care is crucial for providing reassurance and building trust with families. Practitioners should:
- Establish standardized follow-up protocols to ensure all families receive the same level of care.
- Communicate clearly and regularly with parents about the follow-up process and any changes that may occur.
3. Designate a Lead Professional
Having a designated lead professional can streamline the follow-up process and provide a single point of contact for families. Practitioners should:
- Identify a lead professional within the team who will coordinate the child's follow-up care.
- Ensure the lead professional is accessible and responsive to the family's needs and concerns.
4. Offer Support Groups and Psychological Support
Emotional and psychological support is essential for families navigating the complexities of caring for a neurodevelopmentally at-risk infant. Practitioners should:
- Facilitate support groups where parents can share experiences and gain insights from others in similar situations.
- Provide access to psychological support services to help families cope with stress and anxiety.
Encouraging Further Research
While this study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to continue improving follow-up care for neurodevelopmentally at-risk infants. Practitioners are encouraged to:
- Engage in ongoing professional development and stay updated on the latest research in neurodevelopmental follow-up care.
- Participate in or conduct research studies to explore new strategies and interventions that can enhance outcomes for at-risk infants and their families.
By implementing these research findings and committing to continuous learning, practitioners can significantly improve the quality of care provided to neurodevelopmentally at-risk infants and their families.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: A journey through follow-up for neurodevelopmentally at-risk infants—A qualitative study on views of parents and professionals in Liverpool.
