Research Article: Impacts of Integrating Family-Centered Care and Developmental Care Principles on Neonatal Neurodevelopmental Outcomes among High-Risk Neonates
Abstract:
Background: Integrating family-centered care (FCC) and developmental care (DC) principles in neonatal care settings may improve neurodevelopmental outcomes for high-risk neonates. However, the combined impact of FCC and DC has been underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the effects of integrated FCC and DC on neurodevelopment and length of hospital stay in high-risk neonates. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre–post study was conducted among 200 high-risk neonates (<32 weeks gestation or <1500 g) admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in Saudi Arabia. The intervention group (n = 100) received integrated FCC and DC for 6 months. The control group (n = 100) received standard care. Neurodevelopment was assessed using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-III. Length of stay and readmissions were extracted from medical records. Results: The intervention group showed significant improvements in cognitive, motor, and language scores compared to controls (p < 0.05). The intervention group had a 4.3-day reduction in the mean length of stay versus a 1.4-day reduction in controls (p = 0.02). Integrated care independently predicted higher cognitive scores (p = 0.001) and shorter stays (p = 0.006) in regression models. Conclusion: Integrating FCC and DC in neonatal care enhances neurodevelopmental outcomes and reduces hospitalization for high-risk neonates compared to standard care. Implementing relationship-based, developmentally supportive models is critical for optimizing outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Introduction:
The health and neurodevelopmental outcomes of high-risk neonates are a major public health concern [1]; in the critical early stages of life, neonates, especially those classified as high-risk, demand not only precise medical attention but also a holistic approach that incorporates their developmental needs and the integral role of their families’ neonates [2]. The foundation of neonatal care has evolved over the years, emphasizing a multi-faceted approach that goes beyond addressing just the immediate…
Read more