Perceptions of Webcams in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: Here's Looking at you Kid!

Abstract

The majority of parents who completed the questionnaire have positive attitudes toward implementation of a webcam system in the NICU. Education of health care staff is required before implementation.

Web Camera Use in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit-Impact on Nursing Work Flow

“…1,2 The goal of camera services is to allow virtual visitation of the infant by family members and to enhance bonding. Parents have shown a positive attitude towards the camera service.…”

“…Parents have shown a positive attitude towards the camera service. [1][2][3] These technologies need to be user friendly in order to minimally impact the workload of nursing staff. 2 Poorly planned implementation could lead to underutilization of the camera service.…”

“…[1][2][3] These technologies need to be user friendly in order to minimally impact the workload of nursing staff. 2 Poorly planned implementation could lead to underutilization of the camera service. 2 The web-based camera service allows parents and other relatives to visualize the baby admitted in the NICU through a password protected system.…”

“…2 Poorly planned implementation could lead to underutilization of the camera service. 2 The web-based camera service allows parents and other relatives to visualize the baby admitted in the NICU through a password protected system. The web camera is attached to the bedside of the baby; any baby admitted to the NICU can be accessed by the cameras following parental written consent.…”

“…Nurses were also concerned about security issues, an increased number of phone calls, maintaining the camera system, and the infant being seen in the view. 2 Angel Eye developers, a camera company, interviewed nurses after the camera service was implemented. There were concerns regarding the design of the camera and ease of use.…”