Family Centered Care
Family centered care is an approach to health care that respects each family's individual
values, needs, cultures, resources, and strengths. We recognize that the family
is the one constant in the baby's life, while the professionals will have short
term involvement. We believe in treating the family with respect. We will listen
and act on observations that the families make, respect cultural differences, and
involve the family in day to day decision making and care. Family centered care
means the professionals and families recognize and respect the knowledge that each
bring to the care of the baby and work together to provide the best care possible.
The doctors, nurses, and other professionals view the family as a partner and decisions
are made with a team concept. Teamwork requires:
- Open Communication
- Sincerity
- Trust
- Objectivity
- Empathy
- Honesty
- Respect
- Shared Vision and Goals
The NICU at The Nebraska Medical Center has a Family Centered Care Committee to
educate and promote the concept of Family Centered Care. We encourage former NICU
parents to participate on the committee and to offer suggestions to make the NICU
as family friendly as possible. We also have NICU parent meetings where former NICU
parents come to the family lounge and meet and support parents who presently have
babies in our unit.