Work

Developing a Subset of ICNP® Terminology for NICU and Neonatology Settings

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background/Objectives: The International Classification for Nursing Practice (ICNP®) is a standardized nursing terminology that enables the description of nursing care through diagnoses, interventions, and outcomes. An ICNP® Subset is a sub-group of ICNP® terms appropriate for settings of practice, facilitating the direct use of the ICNP® in nursing documentation. As far as we know, there are no Subsets concerning neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) settings. The aim of this study is to develop a Subset of ICNP® NICU and neonatology setting, presenting terms that are validated and harmonized with SNOMED CT nomenclature. Methods: This is a two-phase study. In the first phase ICNP® terms were validated through a qualitative study using a four-round Delphi method and a focus group involving experts in NICU, neonatology settings, and education. The second phase focused on harmonizing the proposed ICNP® Subset with SNOMED CT. Results: A total of 479 ICNP® terms belonging to the Diagnosis/Outcome (DC) and Intervention (IC) axes were validated by the experts. Of these, 99.65% were found to be compatible with SNOMED CT. In addition, 97 new terms (30 Diagnoses/Outcomes and 67 Interventions) were validated and are currently awaiting approval by the International Council of Nurses. Of the newly proposed terms, 93.81% were compatible with SNOMED CT. Conclusions: The proposed Subset consists of 576 ICNP® terms, including 177 Diagnoses/Outcomes and 399 Interventions. Its implementation may support the adoption of electronic health records in neonatal and NICU settings and contribute to improving the quality and standardization of nursing care.

Source: Healthcare

DOI: 10.3390/healthcare14050594