How Congenital Skin Lesions Are Perceived by Health Professionals in the Delivery Room—The <scp>Reconnaissance</scp> Study

Pediatric Dermatology
Open Access

Clinical Summary

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What was studied

A cross-sectional, single-center survey of health professionals in a French maternity unit (Oct–Dec 2023) assessed self-reported knowledge, emotions, and training needs when encountering congenital skin lesions; 88 of 180 staff responded (48.8%).

Key findings

Forty-six percent defined CSL incorrectly, and mean self-rated knowledge was 2.4/10 despite 66% reporting prior training; 17% (15/88) did not know whom to refer to. Emotions varied (professional interest 34% [30/88]; neutral 27% [24/88]; anxious/unease 8% [7/88]; frightened/shocked 3% [3/88]); perceived impact on parents was high (8.3/10), and desire for training was strong (recognition 8.4/10; communication 8.3/10).

Study limitations

Single-center, descriptive survey with a 48.8% response rate limits generalizability. Physician participation was low and most respondents were pediatric nursing assistants, introducing potential selection and knowledge bias; non-respondent views are unknown.

Clinical implications

Delivery-room teams report low confidence in identifying and explaining congenital skin lesions and strongly want training. Establish targeted education, communication skills training, and clear referral pathways to support families at birth.