Study protocol for the development and pilot-testing of a Self-assessment tool for the implementation of the European Standards of Care for Newborn Health (ESCNH)

Introduction In Europe, disparities exist in having access to optimal neonatal care. With the European Standards of Care for Newborn Health (ESCNH), evidence-based reference standards are available which provide guidance to improve the care for preterm and ill newborns. To support healthcare professionals (HCPs) and hospital/clinic management in identifying the extent of ESCNH implementation, a feasible assessment tool is required. Such a tool should help identify areas in need of improvement and provide clear recommendations for action. We aim to develop a digital self-assessment tool for HCPs to detect the local level of ESCNH fulfilment and identify areas in need of improvement, and thus provide recommendations for action. Methods and analysis The self-assessment tool will have the form of a digital questionnaire with condensed ESCNH content. A Project Expert Group provides scientific input. With pretesting among HCPs, a template of a questionnaire section is evaluated and adapted accordingly. The subsequently developed full questionnaire will be appraised within a two-round eDelphi survey by at least 50 invited HCPs. Statements and formulations need to be accepted by at least 80% of participants. The remaining discrepancies will be solved in a final workshop. The resulting digital self-assessment tool (SAT) will be translated into several languages and evaluated in a pilot-testing among at least 20 hospitals/clinics across Europe. Conclusion With the self-reflection through the SAT, HCPs, hospital/clinic managers, policymakers and other stakeholders will receive feedback on the conformity with the ESCNH and guidance for improvement.