How Congenital Skin Lesions Are Perceived by Health Professionals in the Delivery Room-The Reconnaissance Study.

Abstract

Objective: To assess self-reported knowledge and reactions of health professionals in the delivery room (HPDR) when facing a congenital skin lesion (CSL).

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Angers University Hospital Maternity, Angers, France, between October and December 2023. All HPDR staff, including gynecologists, pediatricians, midwives, and nurses, were invited to complete an anonymous semiquantitative survey.

Results: We obtained a total of 88 participants out of 180 HPDR (response rate: 48.8%). Forty-six percent of CSL definitions were incorrect, although 66% of HPDR had received some level of training about CSLs. The mean self-assessed knowledge score was 2.4/10. Emotional responses to CSLs were varied, including professional interest (34%) but also unease and shock (11%). HPDR acknowledged that their reactions could have an impact on parents (mean score: 8.3/10), and they indicated a desire for supplementary training in recognizing CSLs (mean score: 8.4/10) and adopting communication strategies (mean score: 8.3/10).

Conclusions: We confirm that HPDR have a lack of knowledge regarding CSL and difficulties managing these lesions. This lack of knowledge can have consequences for patients and parents, and for HPDR themselves. Body image and the potential physical and psychological impacts of visible lesions are increasingly recognized as critical aspects of care in dermatology. HPDR report a lack of knowledge about CSLs and a desire for training to be able to support families.