The Journal of perinatal & neonatal nursing
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J Perinat Neonatal Nurs · Jul 2012
ReviewIntegrative literature review defining evidence-based neurodevelopmental supportive care of the preterm infant.
Neurodevelopmental supportive care (NDSC) is a well-researched topic and extensive evidence is available on its benefits in terms of the outcome for preterm infants. The programs, strategies, and individual elements of NDSC have been evaluated; however, knowledge and implementation of the developmental care approach is fragmented and the evidence base for elements of NDSC that make up the holistic model is not explicitly documented. The aim of this study was to identify and critically appraise the methodologic quality of relevant research studies and synthesize the current best available evidence of NDSC. ⋯ They described or defined the elements of NDSC explicitly. Extraction of data from these articles contributed to the formulation of 25 conclusion statements. Each of these statements could be grouped under 9 categories that resulted from a process of synthesis, and each of these categories could be substantiated from its literature support, clinical impact, and supporting evidence, including the specific literature references and volume and level of evidence associated with that element of NDSC, providing the evidence base for defining NDSC.
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J Perinat Neonatal Nurs · Jul 2012
ReviewImpact of the design of neonatal intensive care units on neonates, staff, and families: a systematic literature review.
Newborn intensive care is for critically ill newborns requiring constant and continuous care and supervision. The survival rates of critically ill infants and hospitalization in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) have improved over the past 2 decades because of technological advances in neonatology. The design of NICUs may also have implications for the health of babies, parents, and staff. ⋯ Key factors associated with improved outcomes included increased privacy, increased parental involvement in patient care, assistance with infection control, noise control, improved sleep, decreased length of hospital stay, and reduced rehospitalization. The design of NICUs has implications for babies, parents, and staff. An understanding of the positive design features needs to be considered by health service planners, managers, and those who design such specialized units.