Healthcare providers' perceptions of infant physical activity and communication

Background

Healthcare providers (HPs) play a critical role in disseminating information about infant health and development. Two key developmental areas for infants are physical activity (PA) and communication. Few studies have examined HPs views of these topics. Thus, HPs may need support to promote these early development outcomes in infants. Thus, the study explored HPs' perceptions of infant PA and communication.

Methods

A total of 13 HPs with a wide variety of backgrounds were recruited. Zoom semi-structured interviews were based on the Health Belief Model. Deductive content analysis was utilized to analyze data.

Results

HPs knew little about PA guidelines. HPs were concerned about an infant's PA because of limited playtime and tummy time. Most HPs advised parents on PA and motor development milestones, with crawling, walking, and tummy time. HPs also wanted to learn about PA measurement tools. PA promotion was hindered by parents' busy schedules, lack of time, and language barriers. Most HPs advised parents on verbal and nonverbal communication. Many HPs were unfamiliar with communication assessment methods and wanted to learn more.

Conclusions

HPs had limited knowledge about PA guidelines and communication measurement tools. Efforts are needed to identify easily accessible ways to educate HPs that could be disseminated to parents.