Sleep for infants after discharge from a neonatal ward: Expert- and parent endorsed strategies

Abstract

Background: This study aims to outline sleep strategies grounded in scientific research and endorsed by sleep experts, integrating parental input into the evaluation process, to assist parents in supporting infant sleep after discharge from a neonatal ward.

Methods: A Delphi method, consisting of three rounds, was employed. Sleep strategies based on scientific literature were presented to sleep experts and parents of infants discharged from a neonatal ward.

Results: A literature search identified 11 sleep strategies. These strategies were incorporated in Delphi round 1. Out of 17 sleep experts, 13 reviewed and revised these 11 sleep strategies, resulting in a list of 8 sleep strategies. In round 2, these strategies were ranked by 14 out of 17 sleep experts, with "knowledge gathering" being ranked the most important sleep strategy. In round 3, the same list of 8 sleep strategies was ranked by 35 parents. They found "sleep hygiene" and "swaddling" the most important strategies.

Conclusion: This study offers 8 sleep strategies that are grounded in scientific research, supported by experts, and evaluated by parents. Experts and parents prioritize sleep strategies differently. Therefore, healthcare professionals should offer practical and customized sleep strategies that align with the unique needs of each family.

Impact: Experts and parents prioritize sleep strategies differently. This study offers a summary of sleep strategies that are grounded in scientific research, supported by experts, and include parental feedback in the evaluation process. Healthcare professionals can use these strategies to offer practical and customized sleep advise that aligns with the unique needs of each family.