Exploration of a tool to evaluate whether neurodevelopmental care is applied in neonatal units

Abstract

Introduction: The Comprehensive Neonatal Care Protocol ( CNCP) is a national standard for neurodevelopmental and family-centered care. Objective: To explore an instrument to evaluate compliance with the protocol in the neonatal units of 3 maternal-infant hospitals in Paraguay. Materials and Methods: This was a prospective, descriptive and crosssectional study. The `` Performance Evaluation Instrument in the Application of the CNCP Protocol{''} was designed with standards of quality of care and objective criteria to verify compliance. The information was obtained by direct observation, interviews with health personnel, mothers and relatives of hospitalized infants and review of clinical records during two different shifts at each hospital. Results: The instrument was designed with an 80% compliance goal. The percentages of compliance of each standard per hospital were identified as 1st, 2nd and 3rd: Unrestricted access of mothers, parents or guardians and participation in care: 50%, 75%, 25%. Information, education and communication: 30%, 59%, 53%. Skin-to-skin contact: 0%, 0%, 0%. Comprehensive pain management: 12.5%, 25%, 12.5%. Environmental measures to reduce stress and seek comfort: 33%, 33%, 25%. Individualized care according to sleep: 50%, 50%, 0%. Prevention of Retinopathy of Prematurity: 55%, 44%, 66%. Breastfeeding and early nutrition: 66%, 50%, 33%. Complete clinical records, ancillary diagnostic methods: 0%, 50%, 50%. Hostel: 38%, 71%, 57%. Training of 80% of care staff: 75%, 25%, 25%. Total compliance: 1st: 37%, 2nd: 44%, 3rd: 31.5%. Conclusions: The instrument applied was pertinent and accepted. No Hospital meets the 80% goal. Recommendation: Systematically monitor the implementation of regulations.