Parental views of live streaming technology of a tertiary neonatal unit in the UK: A quantitative survey

Introduction The use of live stream technology has been introduced on neonatal units to improve parent access to their babies. This study aimed to explore parents’ experiences of using webcam technology on a neonatal unit. Method This was a prospective, survey-based study. Parents were eligible to participate if they had been offered the use of a webcam while their baby was admitted to the neonatal unit. Results 124 parents completed questionnaires. The majority of parents opted to use the webcams (97%). Most parents reported a decrease or no change in anxiety levels (76%). Thematic analysis highlighted perceived advantages to using webcams included reassurance, virtually present when unable to be physically present, bonding, expressing and including extended family. Conclusion Webcams enabled babies to be integrated into family, provided an opportunity to enhance parent-infant bonding and improved parent wellbeing. Education and support would help reduce some of the challenges parents experienced.