Development of a Neonatal Intensive Care Short Course for Singly Qualified Professional Nurses Practising in Johannesburg

Abstract

Neonatal mortality remains a critical issue, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where conditions such as preterm birth, birth asphyxia, and infections are leading causes of neonatal deaths. Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) are crucial in reducing these deaths by providing specialised care to critically ill neonates. However, in South Africa, there is a significant shortage of neonatal nurse specialists, with most NICUs staffed by singly qualified professional nurses who lack formal training in neonatal care. This gap in specialised skills is exacerbated by the scarcity of neonatal nurse training programs in South Africa and limitations in accessing the current training programs that do incorporate neonatal training. This study aims to address this shortage by developing an outline for a neonatal intensive care short course as part of a continuous professional development (CPD) initiative. The course is designed to equip nurses, particularly those without specialist qualifications, with the competencies necessary to provide high-quality care in NICUs, thereby reducing neonatal mortality. The study follows the ADDIE model, which includes five stages: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation. The research focuses on the first three stages—Analysis, Design, and Development. The study's objectives were as follows: Identify best practices in neonatal care from local and international literature; develop neonatal intensive care competencies to be included in the planned course. Formulate and rank essential competencies for neonatal intensive care nursing; Explore expert opinions on course structure and content, and lastly develop and evaluate the feasibility of the course outline. The research process followed a sequential mixed methods design and involved a mapping review of existing literature, expert consultations through focus groups and interviews, and surveys with NICU nurses to determine the relevance of identified competencies. The course outline was evaluated by experts using the Delphi Method, ensuring that it is feasible and relevant for professional nurses in South Africa. Ultimately, the course will offer a pathway for nurses to upskill themselves, improving neonatal care quality and reducing preventable neonatal deaths.