The Why and How of Family-Centered Care

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Medicine
• Pediatrics
• Psychology

Background:

• Neonatal-perinatal medicine fellows require training in the emotional impact of NICU admissions on families.
• Current curricula inadequately address this crucial competency.
• Family-centered care (FCC) and trauma-informed care are vital for mitigating family distress in the NICU.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review family-centered care (FCC) and trauma-informed care principles.
• To outline the application of these approaches during various NICU hospitalization stages.
• To discuss integrating FCC and parent support networks into NICU practices.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of family-centered care and trauma-informed care.
• Analysis of FCC application across different NICU admission phases.
• Exploration of parent support networks and integration strategies.

Main Results:

• FCC and trauma-informed care are essential for reducing family emotional trauma in the NICU.
• These approaches empower families to resume caregiving roles.
• Effective integration strategies can enhance existing NICU practices.

Conclusions:

• Implementing FCC and trauma-informed care is critical for neonatal training and family well-being.
• Structured curricula are needed to equip fellows with these essential skills.
• Supporting families through these approaches improves the overall NICU experience.