One in every 10 babies born in the U.S. is admitted to the newborn intensive care unit (NICU) because of premature birth or another medical condition. Having a baby hospitalized in a NICU can be frightening, confusing, and overwhelming for parents. In conjunction with its national Prematurity Campaign, the March of Dimes developed NICU Family Support ® to provide information and comfort to these families in crisis.
Guided by former NICU families, the program is built on a family-centered philosophy and is implemented nationwide through March of Dimes chapters. It addresses the needs of parents, siblings, grandparents, and extended family throughout the hospitalization, during the transition home and in the event of a newborn death. Our NICU Families Web site at marchofdimes.com/nicu offers 24-hour access to information, resources and online communities.
· A part-time March of Dimes NICU Family Support Specialist with NICU experience is available at the hospital to work with families and staff.
· A Chapter NICU Action Committee (CNAC) consisting of NICU families and professionals that guide the program selection, development and implementation.
· March of Dimes volunteers who provide parent-to-parent support to families while they are in the NICU.
· Sensitive and engaging Parent Care Kits are given to families in the NICU to help introduce parents to the procedures, conditions, and staff they may encounter while in the NICU.
· Customized programs to serve the specific needs of the Avera McKennan NICU and the population it supports.
· Professional development opportunities for NICU staff to help them sensitively support families on a daily basis. |
