Connecting Mothers and Infants in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Parents may find themselves at a loss when it comes to navigating the challenges that arise when their newborn is being cared for in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Nurses are key sources of support to guide parents in their journey. From prenatal counseling to discharge preparations, parents who partner with nurses and the health care team are better able to assume their roles as parents. Overcoming the stress associated with NICU care is possible with creative partnerships that empower parents to build self-confidence and competence in their role as parents. Interventions are suggested to guide staff to assess individual family's needs and structure care delivery to improve patient outcomes. Support for nursing staff is essential to maximize empathetic care of families in crisis in the NICU.