A survey of skin-to-skin contact with perinatal nurses

Objective: This study explored perinatal nurses' knowledge, attitudes and practices of SSC, to identify knowledge-practice gaps.

Study design: A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was completed by 101 perinatal nurses. Descriptive statistics and ordered logistical regression were used to describe and compare nurses' responses.

Results: The participants strongly agreed that it is nurses' responsibility to advocate for SSC. Significant differences (p<0.01) were reported in provision of SSC with eligible infants between nurses within and between practice settings, education levels, year experience and age differences. Education levels significantly influenced attitudes and implementation of SSC. Perinatal nurses' responses about how difficult it is to initiate SSC changes were affected by years of nursing practice (p<0.04).

Conclusions: Perinatal nurses strongly believe in SSC practices, yet additional training regarding SSC implementation is needed. Education levels, primary practice settings and years of practice appear to influence nurses' implementation of SSC.