Parents as practitioners in preterm care

Area of Science:

• Neonatology
• Developmental Psychology
• Parent-Infant Attachment

Background:

• Very preterm birth presents significant physiological and psychological trauma to both infants and parents.
• The initial care period in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) critically influences the long-term impact of this trauma.
• Parental well-being and involvement are directly linked to infant outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the essential role of parents in the developmental trajectory of preterm neonates.
• To identify key elements for fostering robust parent engagement within the NICU environment.
• To discuss strategies for supporting parents post-discharge to ensure continuity of care.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing research on parental roles in NICU care.
• Analysis of factors influencing parent participation and its impact on infant development.
• Exploration of best practices for parental support during hospitalization and after discharge.

Main Results:

• Parental integration as primary caregivers in the NICU leads to improved infant physiological and psychological regulation.
• Active parental involvement creates a stable and supportive care environment, enhancing infant outcomes.
• Reduced parental stress and anxiety are observed when parents are empowered and central to their infant's care.

Conclusions:

• Optimizing preterm infant development necessitates the active and supported involvement of parents as primary caregivers.
• NICU environments and discharge planning must prioritize strategies that empower parents.
• Long-term infant well-being is significantly enhanced by early and sustained parental engagement in care.