Transformative Perspectives: NICU Parent Stories

In an upcoming special series, NANN’s journal, Advances in Neonatal Care, shines a spotlight on parenting in the NICU. Under the guidance of editor-in-chief Jackie McGrath and special guest editor Ashley Vance, the inaugural series explores parental perspectives with NICU parents Jessica Barnes and Sarah DiGregorio. Through their stories, listeners are invited to reflect on their own practices and recognize the profound impact of parental involvement. Join the conversation as we amplify the voices of these resilient mothers and emphasize the transformative power of our relationships with parents. Tune in to today’s episode to gain invaluable insights and reaffirm the crucial role parents play in the NICU journey.

Point of Care Ultrasound, or POCUS, is an emerging clinical tool being utilized in the NICU. Recent literature describing the use of POCUS for various clinical applications in the NICU has gained increased interest among neonatal clinicians as focus continues to evolve to meet the needs of the NICU, and tiny babies are starting to see the benefit as use of this tool increases. There is an urgent need to develop formal training requirements specific to neonatology, as well as evidence-based guidelines to standardize its use across all NICUs. How can bedside nurses and advanced practice nurses utilize procedural and diagnostic POCUS in their practice? How do you establish and implement a POCUS program in your NICU? Jill is joined by Jacklin Tong and Christine Manipon, neonatal nurse practitioners at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital, on the neonatal POCUS team. There, they continue to educate the value and use of POCUS. Join us today as we discuss the many uses of POCUS in the NICU, developing a program, as well as the clinical challenges one may face with implementing the POCUS program.

On this week’s episode, NANNcast explores the field of family-centered care in NICUs. While NICU nurses understand the importance of involving families in the care process, achieving standardization remains a challenge. Join Jill as she sits down with Dr. Malathi Balasundaram, Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics Neonatal Developmental Medicine at Stanford School of Medicine, and Luann Jones, NANN Board of Director, Secretary Treasurer, and NANN's liaison to the FCC Task Force. Dr. Balasundaram brings her expertise from pioneering a comprehensive family-centered care program in her NICU, shedding light on her experiences and leadership in the FCC Task Force. Together, they'll navigate through strategies, obstacles, and the collaborative initiatives essential for bringing family-centered care to the forefront of NICU practices. Tune in as we embark on this insightful journey!

In this week’s episode, NANNCast dives into the global landscape of NICU nursing with a focus on the recent NANN delegation trip to the United Arab Emirates. Join as we explore the intricacies of NICU nursing in the UAE, emphasizing both the similarities and differences in practices. Joining Jill on the episode are 3 NANN members from the delegation- Gail Bagwell, former NANN President, along with Kelly Thompson and Adrienne Isaacs. Tune in as they navigate the fascinating intersection of NICU nursing, cultural sensitivity, and global healthcare. Discover how these dedicated professionals are contributing to the globalization of neonatal nursing and shaping the future of compassionate care for babies and their families around the world.

Explore the updated perspective on APRN shift lengths and fatigue as host Jill Beck discusses the recently revised position statement from the National Association of Neonatal Nurse Practitioners (NANNP). Joined by former NANNP Council members and co-authors Taryn Edwards and Roxanne Stahl, this episode delves into the research behind the update and offers practical recommendations. Discover insights on navigating the delicate balance between patient safety and the well-being of APRNs. Learn about creating a healthier work environment to ensure the safety of both patients and APRNs. Gain essential knowledge for addressing the challenges of APRN shift lengths and fostering a positive, sustainable workplace.

Neonatal nurses and APRNs have all thought of how to design or develop products or technologies better than what is currently being utilized. How can we as NICU nurses and APRNs enter the world of product and technology development and engage stakeholders to innovate change? On this episode of NANNcast, Jill is joined by the leading clinical expert in industry, Dr. Karen Becker and nursing research scientist, Dr. Katherine Dudding to inspire you on how to move into action. 

This year NANN returns to Anaheim, CA for its 39th Annual Conference. Join us on today’s episode with conference co-chairs Kristin Howard and Adrienne Isaacs for a peek into NANN’s reimagined format that will leave you with maximized learning and networking time. Get excited for this year’s powerful career-transforming additions like a new program format with keynotes starting Tuesday afternoon, the case of the year presentation in partnership with the Vermont Oxford Network, multidisciplinary advanced practice, and POCUS workshop preconference options, and finally exciting receptions, parties, and celebrations to facilitate meaningful community connections.  *The chapter leadership luncheon will not be held this year.

Working in the NICU is stressful. Then add on trying to balance work and life. In this episode, host Jill Beck connects with Eileen O’Grady, the keynote speaker from NANN’s 2022 Annual Conference and author of Choosing Wellness: Unconventional Wisdom for the Overwhelmed, the Discouraged, the Addicted, the Fearful, or the Stuck. Jill and Eileen discuss the wellbeing of the health workforce, the need for self-care, and share tips on ways to form habits that will improve and cultivate a culture of wellness. Learn more about Eileen’s work

Working in the NICU is stressful. Then add on trying to balance work and life. In this episode, host Jill Beck connects with Eileen O’Grady, the keynote speaker from NANN’s 2022 Annual Conference and author of Choosing Wellness: Unconventional Wisdom for the Overwhelmed, the Discouraged, the Addicted, the Fearful, or the Stuck. Jill and Eileen discuss the wellbeing of the health workforce, the need for self-care, and share tips on ways to form habits that will improve and cultivate a culture of wellness. Learn more about Eileen’s work

In honor of Mental Health Awareness month, host Jill Beck and Elizabeth McCutchon, EdD, MS, APRN, NNP-BC discuss the state of mental health, how the health care system has failed to support healthcare workers’ mental health, and what we can do about it.