‘The transition home with a premature baby’: How prepared are parents for discharge from NICU: A narrative review

Aims: To systematically review qualitative studies, investigating how prepared parents are for discharge home from NICU with their premature baby. Design: A qualitative narrative review and thematic synthesis of selected qualitative research evidence. Data sources: Searches were found between December 2022 and March 2023. Electronic databases (CINAHL, PsycINFO, PUBMED, Science Direct) were used. Additionally, Google Scholar for grey literature. Studies were searched within the ten-year time frame. Review methods: Seven primary studies met the inclusion criteria and were appraised for quality using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program tool. Qualitative data was collected, therefore creating a thematic synthesis. Results: Seven qualitative studies published between 2018 and 2022 were appropriate for inclusion. The studies range internationally, concentrating on parent's and nurse's perceptions around preparation for NICU discharge, with a premature baby. Four main themes were identified: communication, training, parental mental health, and empowerment. Conclusion: A high percentage of parents felt prepared for discharge. However, some parents felt mixed feelings, causing anxiety pre and post discharge. Education and training, alongside parental involvement, empowerment, and communication showed improvement. However, although health care professionals utilise these skills, parents still transition home feeling both excited and nervous. Therefore, there is a poor understanding of how prepared parents are for discharge. Impact: The outcomes of this review show the value of utilising the family centred care approach in NICU, incorporating strong communication skills and empowerment for parents. Furthermore, preparation for discharge should be considered from the moment the baby is born, creating ongoing preparation for discharge from admission.