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March of Dimes NICU Family Support was developed and launched in 2001 in three model sites to respond to the emotional and informational needs of families during a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) hospitalization, during the transition home and in the event of a newborn death. NICU families receive books and videos that provide information about the NICU experience, and direct services that provide emotional support within the NICU setting.
Beginning in 2004, NICU Family Support will be implemented by 10 additional chapters, including Delaware. The March of Dimes Delaware Chapter is partnering with Christiana Care Health System and their Special Care Nursery (Christiana Care’s NICU) to implement the NICU Family Support program locally. The Special Care Nursery has approximately 1,100 admissions annually. NICU Family Support has several components that make it unique:
-A half-time NICU Family Support Specialist interfacing with NICU families and staff
-A volunteer parent-professional advisory committee guiding program selection, development and implementation
-A base of direct service volunteers providing support and comfort to families within the NICU setting
-A Parent Care Kit comprised of informative materials being distributed to every NICU family
-Customized Programs developed to serve the needs of the specific NICUs and the populations they aim to support. Some of the customized programs include: Information and support for siblings and extended family; Assisting Spanish-speaking families; Antepartum support and preparation; Comprehensive photography; Easing the transition from NICU to home; Bereavement support
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