Authors (including presenting author) :
Kwok LY(1), Hui YK(2), So HY(3), Chan MC (4)
Affiliation :
(1) Department of Paediatric & Adolescence Medicine
Keyword 1: :
Strengthening Family Resilience
Keyword 2: :
Clinical Team Resilience
Keyword 3: :
Preterm Infants
Keyword 4: :
Parents of Preterm Infants
Introduction :
Parents in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) face profound emotional and practical stress due to medical uncertainties often hindering their bonding with their infants. To address these challenges, a discharge program has been established to support families through structured parent support group activities.
Objectives :
The primary goal of the program is to enhance the well-being of families as they navigate the complexities of caring for preterm infants. By fostering peer-informed support, the program creates a sustainable community that ultimately improves parental confidence and emotional resilience.
Methodology :
Established in 2014, the support group adapted to an online format during the COVID-19 pandemic and resumed in-person activities in 2023. It includes: Biannual group activities: A total of 88 families joined virtual activities in 2021-2022, while around 40 families participated in on-site events annually. These gatherings promote peer connections and alleviate feelings of loneliness. They also facilitate information exchange among parents and professionals and enhance parent-child bonding which is crucial for child development and parental well-being. Clinical Confidence Building: Events provide NICU staff with opportunities to assess infant development in a relaxed environment. This interaction enhances healthcare providers’ confidence in caring for preterm infants, improves communication with families and demonstrates a long-term commitment to their health. Volunteer Recruitment: A significant aspect of the support group is the recruitment and training of peer volunteers. Over 60 parents of preterm graduates have been trained to offer relatable support to families currently in the NICU. This peer-led approach allows for the sharing of lived experiences, helping alleviate emotional distress and providing practical advice.
Result & Outcome :
Feedback from 2023 to 2025 participants comprising 120 parents indicated high satisfaction levels (75% -100% of participants expressed very satisfied and 25% were satisfied with the activities). NICU staff reported increased awareness regarding the long-term implications for preterm infants and their families. Peer volunteers provided relatable support alleviating emotional distress for parents in the NICU. By emphasizing peer support and community building, the program strengthens parental resilience and enhances the overall care provided by clinical teams. This dual intervention fosters a continuous cycle of support for preterm infants from hospitalization through childhood, aiming to improve the well-being of both infants and their families.
