Expanding nursing's role in helping new parents

Nursing practice, research, and public policy currently do not recognize the important reciprocal nature of partner/marital relationships and parenting behavior. As partners adjust to parenthood they often experience significant tension in their relationship that affects their parenting. This article outlines indicators, timing, targets, and outcomes for research-based nursing interventions to help parents care for their couple relationship, thereby indirectly influencing parenting. The author also discusses implications for research to change practice and inform public policy.