Family-centered care for newborns: a global perspective and review

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Health
• Maternal-Child Health
• Healthcare Systems Research

Background:

• Person-centered care models address complex needs of newborns, families, and health systems.
• Cost-effective modalities are crucial for newborn survival in low- and middle-income countries.
• Family-centered newborn care prioritizes family needs and rights, including non-separation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review country experiences on implementing and scaling family-centered newborn care models.
• To explore implementation facilitators and challenges in diverse healthcare settings.
• To identify best practices for transforming neonatal care.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of studies on patient-centered care and newborns (1990-2023).
• Searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and PsycINFO databases.
• Utilized the World Health Organization framework for analysis of 41 included studies.

Main Results:

• Immediate, uninterrupted skin-to-skin care (kangaroo position) enhances breastfeeding, reduces postpartum depression, and prevents infection/hospitalization.
• Parental involvement and attachment are strengthened through close physical contact.
• Key strategies include minimizing mother-child separation, involving fathers, and empowering parents.

Conclusions:

• A paradigm shift from provider-centric to person-centered neonatal care is feasible and beneficial globally.
• Political commitment and supportive policies are essential for facilitating the maternal-infant relationship.
• Family-centered care improves dignity, efficiency, and responsiveness of health systems.