DIGITISING NEONATAL CARE: VIRTUAL WARD ROUNDS AS A TOOL FOR BETTER COMMUNICATION AND OUTCOMES.

Introduction: Virtual ward rounds (VWR) use secure video technology to facilitate remote collaboration among neonatal care teams and involve parents when in-person attendance is limited. Originally adopted during the COVID-19 pandemic, VWR continue to enhance communication, specialist access, and continuity of care. This study assessed the feasibility and acceptability of implementing VWR in a level 2 neonatal unit. Method: This qualitative prospective study was conducted over six months (March–August 2024) in a level 2 neonatal unit serving over 5,500 annual births and approximately 500 neonatal admissions. The study was structured in three phases: Initial Survey: Parents were asked three targeted questions to assess their willingness to participate in virtual ward rounds (VWR) and to identify perceived barriers, such as access to technology, confidentiality concerns, or scheduling challenges. Implementation Phase: A parent information leaflet was developed to explain the purpose, process, and benefits of VWR. Concurrently, training sessions were provided for staff and parents on using the secure video platform “Attend Anywhere,” ensuring ease of access and technical confidence. Post-Trial Feedback: After VWR implementation, structured feedback was collected through four questions directed at parents, nurses, and medical staff to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, perceived benefits, and any ongoing concerns related to virtual participation in ward rounds. Medical and nursing questionnaire was the same, but families had a different questionnaire. Results: A total of 62 families participated in the initial survey, with universal support for virtual ward rounds (VWR) (100%). Reported barriers to attending in-person ward rounds included childcare responsibilities (n=41, 66%), financial constraints (n=10, 16%), and lack of transportation (n=20, (32%). Most families (n=54, 87%) reported having access to a smartphone or tablet and a stable internet connection. During the post-trial feedback stage, responses were received from 114 parents (including 29 couples). Of these, 107 (94%) expressed satisfaction with the VWR experience and indicated they would recommend it to friends and family. A total of 102 (89%) reported being satisfied with the time allocated and the information provided during the consultation. Most respondents (n=92, 80.7%) experienced timely consultations, though delays were more commonly noted during weekends. The majority (n=84, 73%) did not encounter connectivity issues, with most technical difficulties limited to video quality. Among healthcare professionals, 18 medical doctors (6 consultants and 12 resident doctors) and 43 nursing staff provided feedback. Overall, 57 (93%) expressed willingness to continue using VWR in the future. Most respondents (n=58, 95%) reported no significant delays in ward round timing, although minor issues were noted during weekends. Additionally, 56 (91%) indicated that bedside teaching for trainees was not adversely affected using VWR. While 52 (85%) reported no major concerns with the platform, intermittent video-related issues were identified. Conclusion: Virtual ward rounds (VWR) in the neonatal unit are feasible, acceptable, and enhance communication and parental involvement, especially when physical presence is limited. Minor technical issues were manageable and did not affect participation or workflow. VWR had minimal impact on ward round duration or bedside teaching, making it a valuable tool in delivering flexible, family-centered neonatal care.