HOLISTIC CARE FOR HIGH-RISK INFANTS: INTEGRATING FAMILY-CENTRED CARE (FCC) AND EVIDENCE-BASED PRACTICE (EBP)

Abstract

High-risk infants are vulnerable to a range of clinical, developmental and psychosocial issues that require ongoing monitoring from hospitalisation through to the transition home. These conditions not only affect the infants, but can also increase stress, anxiety, uncertainty and the burden of care on parents and families. This chapter discusses the application of holistic care for high-risk infants through the integration of Family-Centred Care (FCC) and Evidence-Based Practice (EBP). The FCC approach positions parents and families as active partners in the planning, implementation and evaluation of care, taking into account the infant’s needs, the family’s capabilities, and the family’s values and preferences. Meanwhile, EBP serves as the foundation for selecting interventions based on the best scientific evidence, nurses’ clinical competence, and the individual condition of the infant. The integration of these two approaches encompasses comprehensive assessment, monitoring of physiological stability, developmental care, pain and stress management, nutritional and breastfeeding support, family involvement, emotional support, as well as discharge planning and continuity of care. The application of evidence-based and family-centred care contributes to improved clinical stability and infant development, strengthened parental involvement and self-confidence, reduced family stress, and strengthened the infant’s bond with the family. The integration of FCC and EBP forms a vital foundation for the provision of safe, individualised, collaborative and continuous nursing care to improve the quality of life and long-term outcomes of high-risk infants.