Towards a Safer and More Efficient Neonatal Transfer System in South Africa: A Qualitative Inquiry with Advanced Life Support Paramedics
Paramedicine · 2021-01-01 · Qualitative study
Abstract
Introduction The inter-healthcare transfer of the critically ill neonate is a critical aspect of larger neonatal intensive care, as it influences the safe transport of neonates from the receiving to the referring hospital. It is crucial then that the transfer process be safe and efficient so as not to compromise the already fragile condition of the neonate. The aim of the study was to understand the challenges advanced life support (ALS) paramedics face during neonatal transfers and to understand how the process could be made safer and more efficient. The objectives related to understanding the transfer process, the challenges linked to the critically ill neonate and the difficulties associated with the ambulance vehicle and equipment. Methods Using a qualitative research approach we sought the views of ALS paramedics at the forefront of transfers nationally. In-depth interviews were held with eight paramedics in KwaZulu-Natal and four focus group discussions with ALS paramedics in KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Free State and the Western Cape in South Africa. A total of 35 ALS paramedics were involved in these group discussions. Results The study uncovered several challenges that paramedics face related to poor organisational preparation for transfer of the critically ill neonate, and other crucial issues that compromise the transfer such as inadequate or defective equipment. Conclusion There is a need for greater scrutiny of the transfer process and a commitment from stakeholders to begin addressing the challenges confronting the safe transfer of critically ill neonates.
Abstract © the authors or publisher, via OpenAlex. Reuse and removal
Tags
Critical care & advanced paramedics · Ambulance vehicle & crash safety · Interfacility & critical care transport · Neonates
Related articles
- The neonatal transfer process through the lens of neonatologists at public hospitals in South Africa. (Health SA, 2022)
- Infrequent exposure to prehospital neonatal interventions and resource utilisation by a public EMS in the Western Cape, South Africa. (BMC Emerg Med, 2026)
- An exploratory study of the experiences and challenges faced by advanced life support paramedics in the milieu of neonatal transfers. (Health SA, 2021)
- Rethinking the neonatal transport ground ambulance. (Ital J Pediatr, 2019)
- The development of a consensus-based curriculum for a Bespoke Online Neonatal Education for Transfers (BONNETs) course. (BMC Med Educ, 2026)
- Service utilisation and outcomes of transfers by a specialised paediatric and neonatal retrieval service in the Western Cape, South Africa. (Afr J Emerg Med, 2025)