Access to videoconferencing in providing support to parents of preterm infants: Ascertaining parental views

Having continued hospital support, even after returning home, in the form of videoconferencing between their home and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), is of great importance for parents of preterm born infants. It is essential to elicit parents' views before providing videoconferencing access to parents. Therefore, the aim of this study was to ascertain the views of parents of preterm infants toward the use of real-time videoconferencing between their home and the NICU. Twelve parents, who participated in the study, were interviewed. Thematic content analysis of their interview texts was carried out. The analysis revealed three categories: willing to try; addition to the conventional care; might facilitate taking the step to go home. The theme identified from content analysis was ‘grabbing the chance to get extra support’. Parents view videoconferencing facility as a possible chance to get extra support. It appears to be one among several other ways to support families after returning home with their preterm infants.