An interdisciplinary, family-focused approach to relational learning in neonatal intensive care

Objective:the aim of this study is to show the efficacy of the program to enhance relational and communication skills–neonatal intensive care unit (percs-nicu).study design:in this study, 74 practitioners attended workshops and completed baseline, post-training and follow-up questionnaires.result:on yes/no questions, 93 to 100% reported improved preparation, communication skills and confidence post-training and follow-up. a total of 94 and 83% improved their ability to establish relationships, and 76 and 83% reported reduced anxiety post-training and follow-up, respectively. on likert items, 59 and 64% improved preparation, 45 and 60% improved communication skills and confidence, 25 and 53% decreased anxiety and 16 and 32% improved relationships post-training and follow-up, respectively. qualitative themes included integrating new communication and relational abilities, honoring the family perspective, appreciating interdisciplinary collaboration, personal/human connection and valuing the learning. in total, 93% applied skills learned, three-quarters transformed practice and 100% recommended percs-nicu.conclusion:after percs-nicu, clinicians improved preparation, communication and relational abilities, confidence and reduced anxiety when holding difficult neonatal conversations.