Engaging parents of hospitalized neonates during a pandemic

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnn.2020.11.013Get rights and content

Abstract

Background

Engaging families through patient- and family-centered care (PFCC), the NICU nurse upholds the core concepts providing holistic care. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic altered the daily routine of visiting parents to hospitals around the nation, particularly for pediatric and neonatal populations.

Methods

This paper describes innovative strategies implemented in a large Level IV NICU to promote the core concepts of PFCC that ensured parent-infant bonding while limiting exposure to a pandemic infection, such as COVID-19.

Discussion

Strategies discussed include virtual visits between parents and infants to promote bonding; virtual parent support groups to encourage information sharing; remote music therapy options which included take-home music kits; diaries, albums, and celebration boards to support participation; among others. Parent collaboration throughout implementation promoted partnership.

Conclusion

Utilizing a variety of unique and innovative approaches to promote PFCC strategies became a critical component of routine planning and care delivery for one large neonatal intensive care unit.

KEYWORDS

Patient centered care
Family centered care
NICU
Pandemic
Coronavirus
COVID-19

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