Neonatal Transport – A Family Support Module

With the regionalization of perinatal/neonatal care and an increase in the prematurity rate, the number of neonatal transports is also increasing. To help foster a family-centered care environment and establish a trusting relationship between families and staff, the neonatal transport team must provide educational and emotional support materials and services to families throughout the transport process. This article describes a collaborative effort between hospital staff, outside organizations (especially the March of Dimes), community businesses and neonatal graduate families that resulted in the creation of a family support module for neonatal transport. This family support module is comprised of services and resources that can be customized to meet the needs of the regional population served. The idea that all staff at the referring hospital and regional center must be knowledgeable of the information and services being provided to families is discussed. In addition, the need for regular evaluation of materials/programs to insure effectiveness is stressed.