Design, Implementation, and Early Outcome Indicators of a New Family-Integrated Neonatal Unit

Neonatal units are becoming more family-centered based on evidence of improved health outcomes when parents provide care to newborns. Physical environment constraints, as well as nursing care traditions and practices, have been barriers to providing care that includes close parental involvement. Our hospital's experience in implementing a unique model of family-centered care in a Level II nursery suggests that this model of care is beneficial to families, satisfying to health care providers, and a viable model for practice. Some basic outcome data are discussed along with suggestions for future research.