In a new study, researchers at UC Davis Children's Hospital have shown that virtual family-centered rounds are a valuable resource for families with children in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The study was published in the journal Telemedicine and e-Health . It showed that minority families, and those without college educations, particularly benefited.
Overall, the virtual option increased attendance and gave families enhanced opportunities to support their child's care. Family-centered rounds are designed to improve communication and patient care. Families join the regular morning medical rounds, which generally include physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dietitians and other medical team members.
They learn about their child's condition and care and ask questions. In addition, parents can provide unique information about allergies, the effectiveness of specific medications and other critical insights. Unfortunately, in-person rounds can also be a heavy lift for many families.
"We found that virtual access really improved parent attendance," said Jennifer Rosenthal, associate professor of Pediatrics and first author on the study. "Those increases were greatest for racial and ethnic minorities, families with no college education and people who lived in neighborhoods with poor health conditions. We are excited because adding this virtual option could overcome some of these inequities.
" Previous research has shown that family-centered rounds boost parents' confidence in .