[Integrated mother-baby nursing care]

The article describes how the obstetrical department at Notre-Dame Hospital in Montreal developed a new, integrated approach to maternal-infant care. The first part deals with the family-centred philosophy of the unit, which has had a profound influence on the nursing staff. It explains how the previous system of post-partum care was changed, what physical modifications had to be made in the obstetrical wing and the organizational changes required to make the new system work. The second part of the article deals with the results of all these changes, as perceived by the clients. A study was conducted, using an experimental and a control group. The former consisted of clients who had experienced the new integrated system of mother-infant care. Results showed them to be more satisfied with the care they received than the control group, who received care along the lines of the traditional model. Clients in both groups were equally satisfied with the physical changes in the obstetrical wing. In summary, the new approach seems to respond to the need expressed by many couples to have their baby in a family-style atmosphere.