The role of the child and family health nurse in the digital era: A literature review

Abstract

With the popularity of mobile devices and the internet, it has become apparent that there has been a change in both parenting and in the role of the child and family health nurse (CFHN). To gain a greater understanding of the impact, relevance and opportunity a CFHN role could make to parents accessing the internet, a literature review was conducted including 16 peer-reviewed research papers and one systematic review. Findings suggested that a large proportion of families value the role of social media platforms to feel connected and supported. Families indicated acceptance and approval with healthcare services by utilising online forums offering health interventions, programs and messages. However, despite the significance families place on digital media, the literature indicated that frequent mobile phone use could negatively influence parent-infant attachment. Recommendations to the CFHN include offering support and guidance to families with obtaining credible, evidenced-based online health information, along with showing an understanding of the negative impact of frequent, habitual mobile device use on the parent-child relationship and, ultimately, on childhood development.