Family Centered Care

Family-centered care meants that we are acknowledging that the family  is a key piece in our care.  Just as every baby is different, so is each family!

ASK! Use specific questions to get the best understanding of the family needs.  Meeting the family where they are will provide for the best outcomes for our patients by allowing us to support the vital bond between parents and babies.

Including the baby's family can be difficult at times but they are essential to recovery.
* They see the infant on a daily basis and may know a tell-tale sign that we don't.  Even if you know what they are going to say, asking makes them feel included.  Having parents on our team is not just better for the baby, it's better for us too!
*noting irregularity in sats or breathing patterns not only reaches parents to be attuned, it reduces the anxiety of each little drop in numbers.
*Research shows that parents who bond in the hospital have an easier transition at home and better neurodevelopmental outcomes at two years of age.
*Explaining why we do what we do removes the mystique which promotes trust. 
For Example:
- "Your baby seems to really like it when you touch her like that.  See how she is all snuggled in and calm?  She's telling you that she feels safe." or "Did you notice that little desat? He's saying that he thinks we're too loud.  He seems to like it much better when we're quiet."

How do you include the family?

- Ask the family if there are cues that they have noticed.
- Teach them ways to "read" their baby.
- Allow them to be involved as much as possible...diapers and temperatures should be a parent's job!
- Provide positive reinforcement for their parents ability.
- Explaining things in terms of the baby's viewpoint when providing teaching.
- Whenever you can, give a rationale.