Validation of a revised instrument to assess implementation readiness of skin-to-skin care in acute or intensive care for neonates born with complex congenital heart disease

Abstract

An instrument measuring implementation readiness of skin-to-skin care for critically ill premature infants has been previously validated. The aim of this study was to adapt the instrument to the neonatal complex congenital heart disease population and perform initial validation for the revised instrument. A group of experts reviewed the original instrument and adapted items based on existing research and face validity. The revised instrument was distributed to nurses and healthcare professionals caring for neonates with complex congenital heart disease at an international conference and word of mouth from August to December 2023. A total of 158 nurses and 65 healthcare professionals completed the survey. Cronbach's alpha demonstrated strong internal consistency (α = 0.96, 95%CI = 0.94–0.97). Exploratory factor analysis revealed a seven-factor solution provided the strongest fit. This instrument may serve as a useful tool for nurses aiming to enhance the uptake of skin-to-skin care for neonates with complex congenital heart disease.