Objectives: The purpose of this article was to evaluate a 2-day centralized neonatal pain care education program that we developed to improve pain care in the NICU.
Methods: To evaluate the effectiveness of the program, an anonymous (ID-type) structured questionnaire and group interview were used. The questionnaire consisted of two parts: a 35-item test of participants' knowledge and a 10-item self-appraisal of learning objectives using a 5-point Likert-type scale. Questionnaire evaluation was performed four times: preprogram, immediately post-program, and 3 and 6 months after. Data were analyzed using one-factor repeated measures ANOVA with Bonferroni correction. The group interview was conducted 6 months later, and participants were asked about 1. changes after attending the program, and 2. the program's ripple effects on medical staff or on pain management by participants. Data were analyzed using Mayring's guidelines.
Result: Thirty four NICU nurses attended the program and two nurses dropped out at the 6-month period after the program. The program improved nurses' knowledge, F (3, 97) = 161.41, p<0.001, and self-appraisal of learning objectives, F (3, 97) = 57.51, p<0.001. The five categories that were considered positive changes in the interview were: continued knowledge acquisition, reaffirmation of neonatal care, support of parents' participation, provision of knowledge to medical staff, and improvement of the care environment.
Conclusion: The effectiveness of this program was confirmed via questionnaire and group interviews. The program shows potential to provide support for NICU nurses and help improve neonatal pain care in Japanese NICUs.