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Other content tagged: Parental experiences

Exploring the difference in life satisfaction of parents with term born and preterm infants

Preterm birth is associated with higher morbidity and mortality of the newborn and possible developmental delay. Parents of preterm children experience increased levels of stress, not only in the period after birth but also years later. To gain a better understanding of the particular situation of families with preterm children, parents in the German Socio-Economic Panel and the British Understanding Society Study were asked to assess their life satisfaction before, during, and after…
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Examining the positive effects of family involvement at the neonatal intensive care unit for newborns and their parents

The stay in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) demands a lot from new parents. The physical and emotional separation between the newborn and their parents often creates feelings of helplessness and stress. Family-centred care (FCC) concepts can help to improve the parents’ mental well-being and the infant’s physical health. The FCC intervention enables parents to be with their child at any time and empowers them to care for their newborn. It also involves…
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Angels for parents with empty arms

Guest article by Veronika Kmetóny Gazdová of our Slovakian partner from parent organisation Malíček.   Preterm birth is a risk for both the woman and the baby. The fragility of life is seen especially in those families whose are leaving the hospital with empty arms. Malíček initiated a project to commemorate those lives as well as support families in their grief. Malíček donates the memorial called “little angels” to perinatal centres across Slovakia. The project builds on the activities of…
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Exploring Parental Bereavement Support in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

A recent systematic review from Canada explored parental experiences and bereavement in the NICU, shedding light on the challenges of infant loss. Healthcare professionals are crucial in supporting parents, which can be done by facilitating meaningful moments and using clear communication. Strategies like shared decision-making, parental involvement in activities, and bonding time were also found to help with grief. Other resources like spiritual care and counselling are also essential. Understanding parents' needs in neonatal loss…
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