Care Through the Newborn's Eyes

Separation of mothers and infants after birth is standard practice for many hospitals, yet not evidence-based. Nonseparation clearly has numerous benefits. However, newborns lack a voice to make choices to direct their course of care. The evidence supports nonseparation strategies for mothers and infants that promote attachment, physiologic regulation, nutrition, sleep, communication, and management of stress/pain. Moreover, the evidence is compelling that nonseparation is essential. The time has come to act on the evidence and begin seeing the care we provide through the newborn's eyes.