Impact of Dying Neonates on Doctors' and Nurses' Personhood: A Systematic Scoping Review

Context. Caring for dying neonates is distressing for healthcare professionals (HCP)s. Yet, the extent of these effects is poorly understood, compromising support of HCPs. To better understand and support HCPs, a systematic scoping review (SSR) of prevailing data is proposed. Objectives. In mapping prevailing data on the impact of caring for dying neonates on HCPs, an SSR proffers new insights on changes to their beliefs, values, coping, actions, relationships and self-concepts of personhood. Methods. Krishna's Systematic Evidenced Based Approach (SEBA) supports a robust, reproducible review whilst its constructivist approach and relativist lens effectively contends with diverse data sources, facilitating a holistic study. Results. A total of 9826 abstracts were reviewed and 69 articles were included. Thematic and content analysis were used simultanously. The four categories drawn from the Ring Theory of Personhood (RToP) complements the four themes identified: Emotional and Physical Difficulties, Coping Mechanisms, Conflict and Recommendations. Conclusion. In highlighting significant longitudinal effects upon all aspects of their lives, this SSR in SEBA reveals a critical need for timely, appropriate and personalized support. We recommend adapting the RToP as an assessment tool to identify and evaluate the needs of these HCPs. It may also be used to structure a holistic support mechanism. Future studies are required to validate its use and appraise other aspects of support available for HCPs.