Abstract
Objective: To conduct the study requiring parent participants to use their assigned technique - play Tetris, use the Butterfly Hug / Safe Calm Place (BH/SCP) technique, use both techniques or use neither technique (control group) – while in the Neonatal Unit (NNU). Through survey results and focus group interviews, the acceptability and feasibility of the study would be established.Background: Post-traumatic Stress Symptoms (PTSS) are a significant problem for parents of preterm infants following discharge from the NNU. Using a visuospatial task such as the BH/SCP or playing Tetris may be effective in minimising PTSS.
Participants: Thirty-three parents of infants born at 33+ 6 weeks gestation or less were recruited. Each parent was allocated to one of four arms: care as usual only (control group), playing Tetris, using the BH/SCP technique, or using dual techniques. Exceeding eligibility criteria regarding gestation resulted in nine participants leaving the study, including those who consented to the dual technique arm. Nurses in the Neonatal Unit also participated in focus group discussions at the end of the study.
Methods – Phase one: Participants used the allocated techniques when they felt anxious or stressed. Online surveys were completed on recruitment, Day 1 /2 in the NNU and four weekly thereafter. A final survey was completed after discharge.
Phase Two: Parents from the Tetris arm took part in an online dyad interview. The focus group for the BH/SCP arm did not materialise. Two online focus group discussions with nurses took place. Discussions underwent thematic analysis ascertaining common themes.
Results: Using the Medical Research Council Framework for Developing and Evaluating Complex Interventions and the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability results from Phases One and Two were considered together. Results showed that the study was acceptable to parents and staff. Amendments to the protocol regarding recruitment timing are recommended to improve feasibility.
| Date of Award | Jul 2026 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
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| Sponsors | Northern Ireland Department for the Economy |
| Supervisor | Breidge Boyle (Supervisor) & Derek McLaughlin (Supervisor) |
Keywords
- post-traumatic stress
- Neonatal
- Butterfly Hug / Safe Calm Place
- Tetris
- parents
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