Abstract
Objective:
The aim of this study is to describe the experiences of Norwegian nurses in using developmental care as a basis for neonatal nursing during 5 years and to identify changes.
Methods:
The study has a descriptive, explorative design and use interviews and observational methods. 10 expert nurses were interviewed (5 in 1998 and 5 in 2004), and 60 hours of observational studies were spent (30 hours in 1998 and 30 hours in 2004). The analysis is done in an hermeneutical tradition, and is based upon Kvales methods of analysis and interpretation.
Results:
The study describes how developmental care is implemented and evolved in a Norwegian NICU during 5 years. Nurses recognize potential harmful or dangerous consequences arising from the environment (light, sound, handling procedures) and implement appropriate interventions to minimize these effects based upon the concept of developmental care for preterm babies.
Conclusion:
The study shows that the nurses have changed their behaviour and attitudes. The most obvious changes are reducing the negative environmental stimuli from sound and light and the handling of patients. The study confirms that developmental care is challenging to the NICU nurses in terms of time needed to change attitudes.