Co-bedding of twins in the neonatal intensive care unit

The increased incidence of multiple gestations has raised many questions regarding the differences in the care of twins versus singletons. The concept of co-bedding twins in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) has drawn increased attention in recent years. A NICU in a children's hospital in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States explored the benefits and risks to this practice, and developed a guideline for double bunking twins. The guideline provides health care professionals with a safe and efficient means to arrange a physical environment that will simulate the environment many parents will use at home. Research is needed to determine the potential physical, psychologic, or psychosocial benefits of co-bedding multiple-gestation infants.