do: A Pathfinder

This is a computer-generated pathfinder created against the Distant Reader study called do.

Each Distant Reader study carrel is composed of many individual items. Each item is bibliographically described with author, title, date, summary, and keyword values. Below is a list of the items' most signficant keywords as well as lists of the items themselves. Purpusing the content of this pathfinder provides the student, researcher, or scholar with one way to get their heads around the scope of the carrel. The keywords include:

Care; Training; Nicu; Parents; Infants; Hospital; Family; Observer; Families; Infant; Staff; Nfi; Baby; Developmental; Feeding; Skin; Pain; Weeks; Stress; Brain; Sleep; Implementation; Apib; Education; Intervention; Levels; Del; Reflection; State; Practices; Communication; Read; Des; Breast; Interpreter; Evin; Julia; Members; Dans

Depending on how this pathfinder was created, many of the bibliographic sections will include elaborations on the meaning(s) of the given keywords. These elaborations were generated by feeding the items' summaries to a large langauge model and asking the model to address the question, "What is X?", where "X" is the keyword. The result will be a few sentences of elaboration. Be forewarned. The elaborations are often plausible, but they should not be take as truth. Instead, they should be taken as points for consideration.

• Volume 1 Issue 1 2007 by Editors, DO (2019) - This boosted serious interest in NIDCAP, and as a result, thirty professionals (doctors, nurses, and therapists) from seven hospital NICUs were accepted for NIDCAP training by our NIDCAP Training Center. The chosen hospital would dedicate staff to NIDCAP training, and support the time of those identified to become NIDCAP Trainers. Keywords: care; center; developmental; director; email; families; hospital; infants; newborn; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; observer; pain; parents; phd; support; trainers; training; work
• Volume 12 Issue 1 2019 by Spence, Kaye (2019) - The average NFCS score to 34 lux stimuli was 1.2 +/- 0.9 versus 1.8 Mission The NFI promotes the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assures the quality of NIDCAP education, training and certification for professionals and hospital systems. Initiated by the NIDCAP Federation International, World NIDCAP Day is an opportunity to recognize and build aware- ness of the importance of providing NIDCAP care for hospi- talized newborns and their families. Keywords: assessment; care; center; contact; director; education; email; family; feeding; hospital; implementation; infants; levels; lux; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; noise; observer; phd; pma; practices; preterm; professionals; program; research; results; skin; staff; support; training; university; weeks
• Volume 12 Issue 2 2019 by Spence, Kaye (2019) - After all, NIDCAP care is about strengthening individualities (the infant's, the family's, the trainee's) while reinforcing a sense of belonging and being held. Mission The NFI promotes the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assures the quality of NIDCAP education, training, mentoring and certification for professionals, and hospital systems. Keywords: baby; care; center; centre; contact; director; email; experience; families; family; health; hospital; infant; international; medical; newborn; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap care; nidcap training; nursery; nurses; observer; parents; phd; professionals; son; staff; study; support; time; trainer; training; unit; university; william; work
• Volume 1 Issue 2 2007 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - The infants, born at less than 32 weeks gestation, were enrolled in a randomized controlled trial evaluating the medical effects of NIDCAP care at Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. Our NIDCAP Center is also working on a book based on developmentally supportive family centered care. Keywords: als; apib; assessment; baby; brain; care; center; children; contact; developmental; director; early; email; hospital; human; infants; laurie; newborn; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; nurses; observer; pain; parents; phd; preterm; staff; support; time; trainer; training; unit; work
• Volume 2 Issue 1 2008 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - This concentrated effort has led to the creation of what we have termed a “comfort bundle,” with interventions This is a story of the birth of our NIDCAP Center. On March 6, 2008 all members of our NIDCAP team, including hospital administration, our staff and our community interventionists celebrated the opening of our NIDCAP Training Center. Keywords: care; center; children; developmental; director; email; families; family; feeding; hospital; infant; journal; medical; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; observer; parents; phd; process; staff; support; trainer; training; university; years
• Volume 2 Issue 2 2008 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - Many parents may experience these feelings, which again are indicators of parental attachment with the infant, pre- dicting future blossoming of infant attachment to the parent. Implications of Kangaroo Care for growth and development in preterm infants. Keywords: attachment; brain; breastfeeding; care; center; children; contact; developmental; early; email; family; gabby; health; hospital; infant; medical; mother; newborn; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nurses; observer; parents; phd; preterm; skin; staff; support; time; training; university
• Volume 3 Issue 1 2009 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - Successful NIDCAP Nursery Certification represents distinction in the provision of a consistently high level of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, and as such is to be commended and celebrated as an inspiration for all. NIDCAP care requires a deeper understand- ing of the critical aspect of relationships for the well-being of infants and their families. Keywords: approach; care; care nursery; center; certification; developmental; families; family; hospital; infant; medical; nicu; nidcap; nidcap nursery; nidcap training; nncp; nursery; nurses; nursing; observer; parents; phd; professionals; program; satisfaction; staff; support; team; training
• Volume 3 Issue 2 2009 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - There are so many aspects of infant care to mas- ter, and the hope is that we can move our patients to a higher level of expertise and comfort by the time they are discharged from the hospital as a family. Dodd V. Implications of kangaroo care for growth and development in preterm infants. Keywords: als; approach; breastfeeding; breastmilk; care; center; children; contact; developmental; director; email; families; family; hospital; implementation; infant; milk; mother; new; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; observer; pain; parents; phd; practice; preterm; process; reflective; relationship; research; support; time; training; work
• Volume 4 Issue 1 2010 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - Successful NIDCAP Nursery Certification represents distinction in the provision of a consistently high level of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, and as such is to be commended and celebrated as an inspiration for all.”2 Successful NIDCAP Nursery Certification represents distinction in the provision of a consistently high level of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, and as such is to be commended and celebrated as an inspiration for all. Keywords: assessment; care; center; certification; developmental; director; families; family; fathers; hospital; infants; mothers; newborn; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap nursery; nidcap training; nncp; nursery; nursery certification; observer; parents; phd; process; program; staff; support; training; training center
• Volume 4 Issue 2 2010 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - Successful NIDCAP Nursery Certification represents distinction in the provision of a consistently high level of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, and as such is to be commended and celebrated as an inspiration for all. When our NIDCAP Center first opened, this was a part-time job, but it soon developed into a full time position. Keywords: assessment; bias; care; center; children; contact; developmental; director; email; families; family; group; health; hospital; infant; international; medical; newborn; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; noah; observer; parents; phd; program; staff; study; support; training; unit
• Volume 5 Issue 1 2011 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - Successful NIDCAP Nursery Certification represents distinction in the provision of a consistently high level of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, and as such is to be commended and celebrated as an inspiration for all. He provided the medical leadership and support for the first NIDCAP Training Center outside of Boston with the creation of the Sooner NIDCAP Training Center at Oklahoma Children’s Hospital in Oklahoma in 1986. Keywords: care; center; children; developmental; director; email; families; family; hospital; infant; intervention; martha; medical; newborn; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; nursery; observer; oklahoma; parents; phd; program; room; staff; support; training; unit; university; years
• Volume 5 Issue 2 2012 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - Successful NIDCAP Nursery Certification represents distinction in the provision of a consistently high level of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, and as such is to be commended and celebrated as an inspiration for all. Fathers of preterm infants were found to have less contact with their infant and this appeared to decrease their at- tachment to their infant. Keywords: baby; care; center; change; children; developmental; director; email; environment; experiences; families; family; fathers; feeding; health; hospital; infant; mother; need; newborn; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; nursery; nursing; observer; oral; parents; phd; preterm; process; professionals; research; staff; support; time; training; unit
• Volume 6 Issue 1 2013 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - Successful NIDCAP Nursery Certification represents distinction in the provision of a consistently high level of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, and as such is to be commended and celebrated as an inspiration for all. In 2005, Marla Wood was hired to begin the training process to become the first NIDCAP Trainer for Arizona’s next NIDCAP Training Center. Keywords: alex; andrew; care; center; children; contact; day; developmental; director; email; families; family; hospital; infant; journal; life; neonatal; nicu; nidcap; nurse; nursing; observer; parents; phd; program; reading; staff; support; team; time; training
• Volume 7 Issue 1 2014 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - Successful NIDCAP Nursery Certification represents distinction in the provision of a consistently high level of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, and as such is to be commended and celebrated as an inspiration for all. The NIDCAP caregiver’s observation sparked a different ap- proach to some aspects of infant care than I had never previously thought of using. Keywords: babies; baby; care; center; certification; children; contact; day; developmental; director; email; emilie; families; family; feeding; fátima; healthcare; home; hospital; infants; molly; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap nursery; nidcap training; nursery; nursing; observer; parents; phd; preterm; program; providers; staff; time; training; university; work
• Volume 8 Issue 1 2015 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - This relatively new group of babies has cre- ated challenges for all providers, but especially bedside nurses; on the positive side, many of the strategies and approaches found to be helpful in NIDCAP care of preterm infants are also extremely helpful in caring for these babies and their families. When asked for their preference for next case presentations, most parents desired that it be performed at the bedside.34 In a survey of community-based clinic patients following bedside presentations and discussions, the group reported that listening to their concerns being discussed with another physician made them more comfortable, and they also demonstrated a preference for listening to interactions in future visits.35 Responses from preterm infant parents are in line with these findings. Keywords: assessment; babies; bedside; care; center; child; children; communication; contact; development; director; email; experience; families; family; fcrs; feeding; health; hospital; infants; journal; medical; nfi; nicu; nidcap; noise; nomas; nursery; nursing; nutritive; observer; parents; pca; pediatrics; phd; preterm; research; rounds; silence; sound; staff; study; sucking; sucks; support; team; time; training; unit; university; weeks
• Volume 9 Issue 1 2016 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - In these examples showing the faces of the NFI we see and appreciate the variety of ways in which one can play a part in achieving our mission to promote the advancement of the phi- losophy and science of NIDCAP care and to assure the quality of NIDCAP education, training and certification for professionals and hospital systems. “Sonicu’s support will help us raise global aware- ness of the need for NIDCAP care and will enhance opportunities to develop educational programs to broaden the reach of this care to ever more NICU professionals and the ‘preterm families’ they serve. Keywords: assessment; attachment; care; center; children; contact; development; director; email; families; family; hospital; infant; massage; neonatal; newborn; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap care; nidcap training; nursery; nurses; nursing; observer; parents; phd; preterm; primary; program; skin; support; team; training; university
• Volume 9 Issue 2 2016 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - Mother and infant interaction and the development of competence. In addition, clinical experience with newborns or young infants and knowl- edge of infant development and standardized testing is required. Keywords: age; assessment; baby; behaviors; care; center; children; contact; day; developmental; director; eds; email; families; family; health; hedlund; holding; hospital; ibaip; infant; interaction; intervention; john; journal; months; mother; neonatal; neurobehavioral; new; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nursery; observer; organization; parents; phd; preterm; professionals; program; regulation; self; social; support; training; usa; van; years
• Volume 10 Issue 1 2017 by Hedlund, Rodd (2019) - Successful NIDCAP Nursery Certification, the ultimate goal, denotes distinction in the provision of a consistently high level of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, in a developmentally supportive environment. Mission The NFI’s mission is to promote the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and to assure the quality of NIDCAP education, training and certification for professionals and hospital systems. Keywords: apib; care; center; children; contact; developmental; director; email; environment; hospital; infants; international; levels; medical; newborn; nfi; nicn; nidcap; nidcap training; noise; nursery; observer; phd; preterm; score; sleep; ssc; staff; support; training; university
• Volume 10 Issue 2 2017 by Ballweg, Diane (2019) - Successful NIDCAP Nursery Certification, the ultimate goal, denotes distinction in the provision of a consistently high level of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, in a developmentally supportive environment. The NFI promotes the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assures the quality of NIDCAP education, training and certification for professionals and hospital systems. Keywords: assessment; babies; baby; brinley; care; center; certification; children; contact; developmental; director; email; families; family; gms; hospital; infants; journal; movements; neonatal; newborn; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; nursery; nursing; observer; pain; phd; prechtl; preterm; support; team; time; training; unit; weeks
• Volume 11 Issue 1 2018 by Ballweg, Diane (2019) - Franck LS, Oulton K, Nderitu S, Lim M, Fang S, Kaiser A. Parent involvement in pain man- agement for NICU infants: a randomized controlled trial. Mission The NFI promotes the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assures the quality of NIDCAP education, training and certification for professionals and hospital systems. Keywords: assessment; baby; care; care unit; center; child; children; contact; developmental; director; discharge; early; edin; email; families; family; group; health; hospital; infants; journal; medical; mother; neonatal; newborn; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nurses; nursing; observer; pain; parental; parents; practice; preterm; program; research; staff; stress; study; support; training; unit; university; weeks
• Australian Neonatal Nurses' Perceptions of Neurodevelopmental Care by Griffiths, N.; Galea, C.; Psaila, K. (2019) - Differences were noted between rural (n=21) and metropoli- tan (n=150) respondents access to NDC education. Of concern the majority of respondents (64%) who had attended education in the past two years had received less than one hour of NDC education. Keywords: care; education; ndc
• Working on the National System: The French Experience by Sizun, J.; Bouvard, C.; Zana, E.; Zores, C.; Kuhn, P.; Casper, C.; Zaoui, C.; Thiriez, G.; Audéoud, F.; Guillois, B. (2019) - The Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP), originated in 1984 by Heidel- ise Als, PhD, is the only comprehensive, family centered, evidence-based approach to newborn developmental care. ing the last decade to support developmental care and NIDCAP implementation. Keywords: care; nidcap; nursery
• Changes of Culture in Implementation of Developmental Care (NIDCAP Approach) by Cala, B. (2019) - Conclusion The NIDCAP approach to Developmental Care necessitates a change of NICU culture which helps healthcare professionals and healthcare institutionsmost fully benefit from the impact of Developmental Care. Developmental Care improves the NICU culture and gives parents and families the opportunity to play a major role in the care of their newborns and itchanges the culture to fully comprehend how NIDCAP Developmental Care supports newborns and their families. Keywords: care; nicu; nidcap
• Advanced Practicum Experience: A Bitter Sweet Symphony by Nunezn, Kristen James (2019) - Introducing William I would like to introduce you to William Schrader, the baby I chose for my advanced practicum. • William’s Medical condition: William was extremely unwell from birth to his death which placed a great deal of difficulty on completing NIDCAP work and was a huge personal and emotional commitment for myself. Keywords: care; nicu; nidcap; practicum; william
• NIDCAP Profile: Dominque Haumont PhD by Browne, Joy (2019) - Mission The NFI promotes the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assures the quality of NIDCAP education, training, mentoring and certification for professionals, and hospital systems. During those days, I realized that I had to contribute to neonatal research in a traditional way in order to insure the cred- ibility of the unit and of the novel approaches to NICU care. Keywords: care; nicu; nidcap; staff; training
• Global Perspectives of Developmental Care – Belize by Johnson, Melissa R. (2019) - As she planned a return visit in close conversation with the pro- fessionals in Belize, she was asked to include developmental care in the materials to be shared during her next visit. The nursing leadership in the unit was paramount to success, with the head nurse demonstrating the qualities of leadership of her staff, dedication to quality, and motivation to strengthen developmental care that would be the envy of any nursery. Keywords: belize; care; professionals; wpp
• “Who is that masked man?” by Alberts, Jeffrey R. (2019) - So they turned to a 51-bed NICU study site in the northeast of the U.S., where they probed into phenomena of stress and depression among NICU fathers. The researchers sought to measure the incidence of depression in NICU fathers and assayed for symptoms with the EPDS. Keywords: care; fathers; nicu; nursery
• Health Care Professionals Beliefs and Perceptions on Family-centered Care in the NICU by Vittner, D; Parker, M; DeMeo, S; Baxter, A; McGrath, J (2020) - Developmental Observer • 2020 • 3 Background The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) is a complex, technology-driven environment where health care professionals have many tasks to accomplish throughout the day. Journal of Family Nursing 2007, 13(4): 484-502. Keywords: care; family; fcc; health
• Filling a Significant Gap in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (CICU): Quality Improvement Using the Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) Approach by Butler, S; Hartwell, L; Thornton, J; LaRonde, M; Rachwal, C (2020) - NIDCAP has repeatedly proven to improve neurodevelopment and psychosocial outcomes for high-risk infants and their families.15-17 The global aim of the current project was to be the first CICU to implement and measure NIDCAP care. Results Over two years of intervention implementation, there have been no major adverse events related to NIDCAP care. Keywords: care; developmental; nidcap
• Oxytocin Release is Strongly Associated With Premature Infant Behavioral Patterns by Vittner, D; Lawhon, g; D'Agata, A; McGrath, J M; Young, E (2020) - There was also a relationship identified using Pearson’s correlation between infant oxytocin levels and the infant’s neurobehavioral functioning. Research suggests as preterm infants mature, many remain increasingly disadvantaged on many neurodevelopmental outcomes. Keywords: care; infants; oxytocin; preterm; skin; ssc
• European Standards of Care for Newborn Health by Bertoncelli, Natascia Meyer (2020) - The role of the Topic Expert Group on IFCDC was defining practice standards for the implementation of newborn care centred around the infant and his/her family in order to support optimal health and devel- opment of preterm and ill newborn infants. 20 • 2020 • Developmental Observer Survival rate for preterm infants is continuously improving thanks to advances in medical science. Keywords: care; standards
• Global Perspective of Developmental Care – Chile by Castellanos, Marcella (2020) - Global Perspective of Developmental Care – Chile Marcela Castellanos, MD Pediatrician, Neonatologist, NIDCAP Professional, Clinica Las Condes & Hospital Santiago Oriente – Dr Luis Tisne Clinica Las Condes Hospital Santiago Oriente “Dr. Luis Tisné Brousse DOI: 10.14434/do.v13i1.29092 If requests for NIDCAP Training are received I recommend for them to apply to Argentina or Spain for training. Keywords: care; parents
• NIDCAP Training Center Tübingen, Germany by Wetzel, Natalie (2020) - In a stepwise fashion, we recognize NIDCAP Training Centers Around the World NIDCAP Training Center Tübingen, Germany NIDCAP- Team Tübingen (2015) from left to right Kerstin Gründler (MD, NIDCAP-Professional), Tabea Tjhen (Speach Therapist, NIDCAP Professional), Birgit Holzhüter (MD, NIDCAP-Trainer), Natalie Wetzel (RN, NIDCAP-Trainer), Rebekka Bauer (RN, NIDCAP Professional), Prof. Heidelise Als (NIDCAP Master Trainer), Ina Schmollinger (RN, NIDCAP Professional), Eva Jochim (RN, NIDCAP Professional), SuSi Wagner (RN, NIDCAP Professional) Four years ago, binding regulations on staffing were introduced in Germany, so that VLBW infants now receive 1:1 or at least 1:2 nursing care (depending on illness severity), which has been very helpful for NIDCAP work and implementation. Keywords: care; nidcap; parents; professional
• Developmental Observer Vol 13 Issue 1 by Spence, Kaye (2020) - The Embrace mentor, a NIDCAP trained provider, established trust and friendship by accompany- ing her to birth classes (instructed by another Karen immigrant) where she was educated on delivery, hospital policies, infant care, and family planning. Results Mothers and fathers of preterm infants in our sample show high levels of emotional distress. Keywords: baby; birth; care; center; children; contact; day; developmental; director; email; families; family; feeding; health; hospital; individualized; infants; matilda; mother; newborn; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; observer; oxytocin; parents; phd; preterm; program; reading; research; scores; skin; sounds; staff; stress; study; support; training; unit; university; work
• Understanding the biologic effect of stress on the developing brain, and insights from the COVID-19 pandemic. by Litmanovitz, Ita (2020) - The article utilizes accepted models of the developmental origins of health and illness to shed new light on the impact of stress on preterm infant brain development. Decreased regional brain volumes were found in former preterm infants even at seven years of age.3 Furthermore, a growing body of evidence, from both animal and human studies, indicate that stress experienced during the fetal and neonatal period is associated with substantial long-term neurodevelopmental morbidity.4 Despite the increasing evidence regarding the impact of stress on brain development of preterm infants, the mechanisms underlying these short- and long-term developmental influ- ences remain largely unexplored. Keywords: brain; care; development; exposure; infants; preterm; stress
• Global Perspective of Developmental Care – Cyprus by Pantelides, Pani (2020) - None of the above would have been achieved without the generous support of the parents’ organization, “Thermokoititha Agapis” (“Incubator of Love”) which organizes and finances all staff training regarding developmental care, provides the two NICUs with developmental care equipment and has taken over, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the renovation of the NICU in Nicosia. The turning point in developmental care implementation was in 2012 with the Foundation Course: Individualised Family Centred Developmental Care run by Dr Warren, Ms Bond and myself as an assistant. Keywords: care; parents; staff
• The Barcelona NIDCAP Training Center by Perapoch, Josep (2020) - Our goal is to offer NIDCAP training in hospitals of neighboring countries and, at the same time, contribute to the implementation of a NIDCAP-based model of newborn care in all hospitals within Spain. NIDCAP Nursery Program The NIDCAP Nursery Program provides a comprehensive resource for the self- evaluation by a nursery system of its strengths and goals for integration of NIDCAP principles into all aspects of their functioning. Keywords: care; hospitals; nidcap
• Selected Publications 2019 - 2020 by Spence, Kaye (2020) - DOI: 10.1016/j. pedn.2019.03.014 This study found that professional efficacy had the largest influ- ence on developmental care practice, followed by perception of developmental care, and a task-oriented organizational culture. However, because of clinical heterogeneity, more studies are needed to evaluate the effects of developmental NICU care in the development of preterm infants. Keywords: care; development; doi; infants; nicu; nurses; preterm; study; unit
• Developmental Observer by Spence, Kaye (2020) - Mission The NFI promotes the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assures the quality of NIDCAP education, training, mentoring and certification for professionals, and hospital systems. Our goal is to offer NIDCAP training in hospitals of neighboring countries and, at the same time, contribute to the implementation of a NIDCAP-based model of newborn care in all hospitals within Spain. Keywords: babies; baby; care; center; contact; developmental; director; doi; email; experience; families; family; feeding; health; hospital; implementation; infants; neonatal; newborn; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap care; nidcap training; nursery; observer; parents; phd; preterm; professionals; staff; stress; support; time; training; unit
• The Strength of the NFI’s Collective Experience by Buehler, Deborah (2020) - With that visit, the healthcare team learned about NIDCAP and a new group of NIDCAP trainees was launched. 27 ISSN: 2689-2650 (online) DO 13:2 full issue DOI: 10.14434/do.v13i2.31223 U se d w ith p er m is si on The Strength of the NFI’s Collective Experience Deborah Buehler, PhD President, NIDCAP Federation International DOI: 10.14434/do.v13i2.31301 One of my very early experiences as a NIDCAP Trainer took me to Falun, Sweden. Keywords: care; healthcare; nfi; nidcap
• Developmental Observer by Spence, Kaye (2021) - Mission The NFI promotes the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assures the quality of NIDCAP education, training, mentoring and certification for professionals, and hospital systems. Highly attuned implementation of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, in a developmentally supportive environment is a goal as well as a process. Keywords: babies; care; center; centre; contact; covid-19; director; doi; email; families; family; hospital; infants; kmc; neonatal; newborn; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; observer; parents; phd; practice; preterm; read; sleep; staff; team; thon; time; training; unit; university
• From the Editor by Spence, Kaye (2021) - We learn about the amazing work in Serbia in giving NIDCAP and developmental care a focus. The NFI encourages highly attuned implementation of the Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) for all intensive, special care and newborn nurseries around the world. Keywords: care; nidcap
• Early Kangaroo Mother Care in Preterm Infants: Is it Safe? by Bedetti, L; Bertoncelli, Natascia Meyer (2021) - Total duration of desaturation, total duration of bradycardia, number of apnea episodes and body tem- perature were not statistically different during KMC episode and the hour prior to KMC. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the safety of early KMC in preterm infants. Keywords: care; infants; kmc; mother; weeks
• Recommended Standards, Competencies and Best Practices for Infant and Family Centered Developmental Care in the Intensive Care Unit by Browne, Joy; Jaeger, Carol; Spence, Kaye; Tyebkhan, Juzer; Panel, Gravens (2021) - Consensus Committee on Infant Family Centered Developmental Care. Consensus Committee on Infant Family Centered Developmental Care. Keywords: care; infant
• Kangaroo Care Practice during COVID 19 Pandemic in a Newborn Intensive Care Unit of a Middle-Income Country by Charafeddine, L; Masri, S; Maalouf, F; Abi Farraj, F; Haidar, M; Hamoud, s; Chemali, Z (2021) - Control Chart Developmental Observer • 2021 • 5 Results The mean number of KMC sessions for infants ≤ 34 weeks was 2.5 sessions per month prior to visitation restrictions. The interventions performed by the KMC QI team seemed to improve the rates of KMC at our institution especially during the adverse times relat- ing to the COVID-19 pandemic. Keywords: beirut; care; covid-19; infants; kmc
• Becoming Parents in NICU During the COVID Pandemic: Challenges and Opportunities by Ancora, Gina; Simone, Natascia (2021) - In the best of cases parents have been allowed to stay with their babies only one parent at a time, wearing face masks. Methods During the lockdown period the level III NICU in Rimini remained open for parents 24 hours a day. Keywords: care; covid-19; fathers; parents
• Global Perspectives of Developmental Care - SERBIA by Rankovic Janevski, Milica (2021) - Mission The NFI promotes the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assures the quality of NIDCAP education, training, mentoring and certification for professionals, and hospital systems. As all our activities, and especially the new method of NIDCAP care, became increasingly known, the members of the NIDCAP team were invited to share their knowledge and experience. Keywords: care; institute; nidcap; serbia
• A Miraculous Journey by Gerassis, Eleni (2021) - Dimi is now a healthy and bright 13-year-old in year 7 and absolutely loving high school. We named her Dimitra (Dimi). Keywords: care; dimi; grace
• Combined multimodal cerebral monitoring and focused hemodynamic assessment in extremely low birth weight infants – Potential benefits or potential costs? by Litmanovitz, Ita (2021) - So, despite the common goal of improving developmental outcomes, the two models for preterm infant care differ greatly. Severe intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and white mat- ter injury are associated with a significant risk of adverse neu- rodevelopmental outcomes and remain a persistent challenge for preterm infants. Keywords: care; doi; hemodynamic; infants; injury; monitoring; mother; preterm
• Global Perspectives of Developmental Care – South Africa: Neurodevelopmental supportive care in a rainbow nation by Lubbe, Welma (2021) - Thereafter some components were incorporated in neonatal care by individuals, however changing the culture to ensure that neurodevelopmental care became the underlying model of care in all neonatal units across the country, has proven to be challenging. Neurodevelopmental supportive care (NDSC) is a widely known but fragmentally implemented care model in the South African context. Keywords: africa; care; ndsc; parents; preterm; south
• Children’s Hospital University of Illinois (CHUI) NIDCAP Training Center by Powlesland, Jean; Hofherr, Jennifer (2021) - NICU Leadership at 2019 Midwest Developmental Conference Mission The NFI promotes the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assures the quality of NIDCAP education, training, mentoring and certification for professionals, and hospital systems. In 1998 UIC received a grant from the Harris Foundation to establish a NIDCAP Training Center in Chicago with Dr. Als as Trainer. Keywords: care; center; nidcap; staff; training
• Publications 2020 – 2021 by Spence, Kaye (2021) - It was thought to have improved infant care and wellbeing, as well as the staff relationship with parents, how- ever working conditions remained a challenge. During the pandemic, family presence was restricted in 83% of units, while participation in infant care was restricted in 32%. Keywords: care; doi; family; group; implementation; infants; intervention; mothers; nidcap; preterm; skin; study
• Developmental Observer: Vol 14, No 2 by Spence, Kaye (2021) - So, despite the common goal of improving developmental outcomes, the two models for preterm infant care differ greatly. Highly attuned implementation of NIDCAP care for infants and their families, as well as for the staff, in a developmentally supportive environment is a goal as well as a process. Keywords: assessment; babies; baby; birth; care; center; children; contact; development; director; doi; email; families; family; feeding; hospital; implementation; infants; mothers; neonatal; newborn; nfi; nicu; nidcap; nidcap care; nidcap training; observer; parents; phd; preterm; program; skin; south; study; support; time; training; training center; unit; university; years
• Editorial: A new Chapter by Spence, Kaye (2022) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. Her work has focused on NIDCAP research, education and mentorship, and awareness. Keywords: care; nidcap; observer
• NICU “graduates” Follow-up: Goals Achieved and Future Perspectives of a NIDCAP Team by Papa, I; Montesi, A; Grandi, S; Simeone, N (2022) - Conclusion Improvement in single infants neurodevelopmental motor trajectories, low prevalence of poor cognitive outcome and cerebral palsy (CP) were observed during a FU that included the principles of the NIDCAP care for infants and families also after discharge from NICU. This reorganization was possible because the FU team included NIDCAP professionals and trainees. Keywords: care; infants; nidcap
• NIDCAP from a Parent’s Perspective by Persson Pettersen , Magdalena; Persson, Andre; Klemming, Stina (2022) - We do not know if it was Immediate skin-to-skin with Magdalena after Benjamin’s birth “If there is a time in life when you have to try your luck, it must be when having a chance for “special treatment “ to get the best opportunity to protect your child.” —Magdalena, Benjamin’s mother Family Voices, continued from p. 1 2022 • Developmental Observer • 3 exhaustion or a feeling of safety that made it possible for us to sleep, but the night passed, and we heard neither beeping nor howling except those from our own alarm clock that rang at Benjamin’s feeding time. Benjamin arrives into the world after nine minutes and lays on his mother’s chest. Keywords: benjamin; care; skin; time
• Global Perspective on Developmental Care - Ireland by Vaughan, Susan; O'Connor, Mary (2022) - Developmental care is the name that encapsulates NIDCAP, FINE and FiCare in Ireland. In CUMH, a multidisciplinary group was set up including past parents of the unit, social work, OT, SLT, medical and nursing staff and the NIDCAP Professionals to develop a more fami- ly-centered unit and to promote developmental care. Keywords: care; hospital; neonatal; nidcap; unit
• Trauma Informed Developmentally Supportive Care by Fuller, Kristy; DeWolfe, Tara; Coughlin, Mary (2022) - The concept of trauma informed care was co-opted from the field of behavioral and mental health in 2013 for application in the newborn intensive care unit (NICU). Exploring trauma informed care begins with getting in touch with one’s own story. Keywords: care; child; doi; experience; health; nicu; trauma
• Reflections on the Virtual 32nd NIDCAP Trainers Meeting 20 – 23 October 2021 by Sizun, Jacques; Helm, Jim; Daly, Mandy (2022) - Families are the cornerstone upon which newborn care must be developed and delivered. The psychoneuroendocrine perspective can be a gateway to NIDCAP for them, as it has been observed for other fields of newborn care such as: pain (close link between develop- mental care practices and non-pharmacological treatments); palliative care (same philosophy of holistic, individualized, family-centered care); and/or breastfeeding support. Keywords: care; families; infant; meeting; nfi; nidcap; observer
• Developmental Observer by Spence, Kaye (2022) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. Expansion of NIDCAP As the demand for NIDCAP training grew, the second French NIDCAP Training Center opened its doors in 2017 in Tou- louse. Keywords: baby; caffeine; care; center; children; contact; day; developmental; director; discharge; doi; email; family; feeding; health; hospital; infants; masahiro; neonatal; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; observer; outcomes; parents; phd; preterm; program; research; skin; sucking; support; time; trainer; training; training center; weeks; work
• Editorial by Spence, Kaye (2022) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. Her work has focused on NIDCAP research, education and mentorship, and awareness. Keywords: care; nidcap; training
• Bjorn Westrup PhD by Kuhn, Pierre (2022) - A prospective phase-lagged observational study was commenced during NIDCAP Training of myself and Agneta. FINE has been very well received and it led to more NIDCAP Training. Keywords: björn; care; ifcdc; infants; nidcap; skin; training
• An Open Letter from a Family by Uchiumi, Kanako (2022) - 【家族コラム原稿案】 まさひろくんは２２週、四百数十グラムで、私たちの病院で生まれました。 彼は生まれた直後から肺の状態が悪く重症でした。NOガスと呼吸器のサポートをず っと必要としていました。ご両親にとって初めてのお子さんで、毎日、まさひろく んに手で優しく触れ、優しく語りかけてくれました。そして、ご両親は彼のしぐさ を読み取れるようになりました。 あるときのカンガルーケアでは、ママの胸の上で彼の表情は安らぎました。そして 彼の痛みや苦痛が和らいでいることをママは察知しました。パパのときは目も口も 開けて表情が輝き喜んでいました。それはまるでアトラクションを楽しんでいるか のようでした。 ハーフバースデーを迎えて間もなく、　2021年４月、永遠の旅に出た優裕くんとの 別れは大きな悲しみでした。しかし、優裕くんのお母さんが「皆さんのおかげで私 たちは家族になれました」とおっしゃってくださったことに、大きな悲しみの中で 少しの安堵感を覚えました。後日、私たちの病院スタッフへご家族からお手紙をい ただき、私たちは大きな勇気とエネルギーをもらいました。そのお手紙をご紹介し ます。 墨東病院NICUの皆様へ 拝啓 Masahiro’s diary Masahiro’s team 8 • 2022 • Developmental Observer N NICUで過ごした6か月は短いようですが、私たち家族にとっては十分過ぎる時間 であるようにも思います。よく頑張ってくれましたから。 　息子の生きた6か月はまさにコロナの感染への恐怖が広がる中にありました。 院内では親と子の絆を守ること、関わる人すべての安全を守ることと、いろいろ難 しい判断があったと思います。 そんな中で、24時間の面会を許可してくださったり、積極的なカンガルーケアを実 施してくださったり、私たちの心に寄り添ったケアを最後の最後まで行ってくださ いました。 その時できる最大限のことを皆さんが日々考え、話し合ってくださっていたこと。 家族の言葉に敏感に耳を傾け、連携してケアや治療に力を尽くしてくださったこ と。 そして何より、優裕と私たち家族に愛情をもって接してくださっていたこと。 本当に感謝の思いでいっぱいです。ありがとうございました。 皆さんからいただいた写真付きの成長記録や皆さんと書き綴った優裕ダイアリーも そのひとつです。忙しい中、たくさんのメッセージをありがとうございました。大 切な宝物です。 皆さんお一人おひとりなくして、優裕との6か月はありませんでした。 まーくん。まーくん…。 たくさんの呼びかけに、一生懸命こたえる姿が今でも忘れられません。 小さな変化や成長に一緒に笑い、喜び合ってくださり、私たちにとって初めての子 育ては皆さんのおかげで楽しくて幸せなものになりました。 まだまだ悲しみやつらさは癒えませんが、みなさんの顔を思い出すと今でも元気が 出ます！ 皆様との出会い、本当に感謝しています。 早産で生まればかりの赤ちゃんの気持ちをどう汲み取り、どう接したらよいのか。 とまどいの中、皆さんの赤ちゃんに対する声かけや行動は私たちのお手本となり、 言葉の一つひとつが赤ちゃんとの距離を縮めてくれました。 ホールディングやカンガルーケアも、私たちが想像する以上に、赤ちゃんにとって 最高の時間を与えられるということも実感し、本当に驚きました。 保育器に一日中、手を入れて話しかけてはウトウトしたり、子守歌を歌ったり…。 そんな姿も温かい目で見守ってくださり、ありがとうございました。 「ＮＩＣＵは治療する場ではありませんよ」とある日、教わったこと。 ＮＩＣＵは家族とともに赤ちゃんの子育てを手助けする場所なんだ、と理解しまし た。それまでは病気をあらゆる方法で治療する場所で特別なんだと思っていただけ に、気持ちが和らいだことを覚えています。そして、皆さんが一緒に子育てを手助 けして応援してくださっているんだと感じ、とてもうれしかったです。 　状況は赤ちゃんやご家族によっても様々だと思いますが、これからも赤ちゃんや ご家族に寄り添った優しい場所であり続けてください。 　そして、ＮＩＤＣＡＰの取り組みも、今後、日本中で当たり前に取り入れられる ことを私たち家族も願っています。赤ちゃんの心のケアと、成長と発達のために理 想的な環境づくりを今後も期待しています。 敬具 2021年6月 優裕の父、母 Masahiro with his mother, Miwa Mission The NFI promotes the advancement of the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assures the quality of NIDCAP education, training, mentoring and certification for professionals, and hospital systems. Keywords: baby; care; family; masahiro
• Not an exclusive club anymore by Silberstein, Dalia (2022) - Clearly, neonatal research is needed, as is its broadly-based dissemination. Envisioning a path beyond informed consent While we can celebrate recent ad- vances in patient involvement in medical research, parental involve- ment in neonatal research seems to be evolving more slowly.2 Informed consent is one aspect of neonatal research in which parental involve- ment is formally pursued. Keywords: care; email; nicu; nidcap; parents; research; trainer; training
• French NIDCAP Center, Brest by Minguy, Sylvie (2022) - Expansion of NIDCAP As the demand for NIDCAP training grew, the second French NIDCAP Training Center opened its doors in 2017 in Tou- louse. Dr Jean-Michel Roué took over the directorship of French NIDCAP Center, Brest which now has six NIDCAP Professionals, two of whom are working full time in the unit. Keywords: brest; care; infants; nidcap; parents; training
• Developmental Observer : Heidelise Als Commemorative Issue by Beuhler, Deborah ; Lawhon, gretchen; Kosta, Sandra ; Butler, Samantha (2022) - Als H. NIDCAP: The Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program. Als H. Assessing infant individuality. Keywords: als; als h; apib; assessment; babies; baby; behavior; boston; brain; brazelton; butler; care; center; change; children; development; director; duffy; editors; email; families; family; heidelise; heidi; hospital; human; individualized; infant; interaction; international; journal; lawhon; life; mcanulty; newborn; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; nntc; noise; observer; parents; phd; preterm; professionals; program; research; silence; study; support; time; trainer; training center; tronick; unit; university; way; work; world; years
• Developmental Observer : Vol 16, No 1, 2023 by Spence, Kaye (2023) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. As a Research Specialist at Boston Children’s Hospital, Sandra has co-authored several papers on the effectiveness and long-term outcomes of NIDCAP Care. Keywords: attachment; babies; baby; breastfeeding; c t; care; center; contact; del; development; director; doi; e e; e r; edmonton; education; email; family; health; hospital; infants; level; los; m e; medical; meeting; n e; n t; new; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; nurses; nursing; observer; pain; parents; phd; preterm; professionals; que; r s; research; sleep; staff; support; t e; t r; team; trainer; training; una; unit; university; work; years; zealand
• Practice of Developmental Care During Multilayered Crisis Situation: Lessons Learned from Lebanon by Masri , S; Charafeddine , L (2023) - A I N E R S M E E T I N G 2 0 2 3 Background about the Lebanese crisis Developmental care (DC) was established in 2013 at the Level III NICU of the American University of Beirut Medical Center in Lebanon through the Developmental Care and Early Interven- tion Program (DCEIP) led by a NIDCAP certified team of neo- natologist and NICU nurses. Findings Amid this crisis, the DCEIP team drafted policies to standardize DC practice. Keywords: care; crisis
• Does developmental care education alter nurses’ perceptions of developmental care practices in surgical neonatal intensive care units? by Griffiths, Nadine; Sinclair, Lynn (2023) - This research on nurses’ perceptions of developmental care was undertaken in two surgical NICUs, one with an embedded NIDCAP Training Centre (Site A: 23-bed unit), and one with an alternate unit-based model of developmental care education (Site B: 40-bed unit). Conclusion: The survey results suggest surgical NICU nurses have a high level of awareness of developmental care and its positive impacts. Keywords: care; nurses
• From parental involvement to a partnership with families in newborn care: an improvement project using the bottom-up approach by Simeone, N; Ancora, G (2023) - This goal can best be achieved by listening to and involving parents not only in baby care, but also in its organization; furthermore, a partici- patory approach from the staff could improve the implementa- tion of the NIDCAP approach. Methods A multi-professional group (NIDCAP Professionals, psycholo- gist, pedagogue, unit leadership), in collaboration with parents’ representatives, designed the project that included the follow- ings phases: • Discussion within multi-professional focus groups on cur- rent values and strengths of staff in providing assistance in collaboration with parents (“where do we start from”, “what not to lose along the way”); future goals and organizational changes required to facilitate the process. Keywords: care; parents; staff
• Music therapy intervention in an open-bay neonatal intensive care unit room is associated with less noise and higher signals: A case-control study by Arnon, S; Yakobson, D (2023) - This study aimed to evaluate the effect of MT on noise levels in the NICU and to compare the specific effects of individual MT (IMT) and environmental MT (EMT). Noise levels were recorded simultaneously from two open bay rooms, one with MT and the other without. Keywords: care; noise; room
• Edmonton NIDCAP Training Centre, Canada by Nykipilo , Andrea; Tyebkhan, Juzer (2023) - Improvement of short- and long-term outcomes for very low birth weight infants: Edmonton NIDCAP trial.  Obtaining a grant for a randomized control trial of NIDCAP in Edmonton followed and the origi- nal Edmonton NIDCAP team completed the study in 2004. Keywords: care; edmonton; nidcap; training
• New Zealand: A nursing reflection by Garton , Dale; Kendrick, Lauren (2023) - With ongoing support from organ- isations (e.g., NNCA), interest from consumer groups (e.g., The Little Miracles Trust NICU parent peer-to-peer support group), and training from FINE 1 and 2 and potentially NIDCAP easily accessible through the Australasian NIDCAP Training Centre, the road map to ensure developmental care is fully integrated into neonatal care nationally is well on its way to achieving the best outcomes for pēpi and whanau entrusted in our care. Developmental care had a natural affinity with the nursing concept of caring making it a philosophy that should have been easily embraced by the nursing team.4 In the early days, how- ever, practicing developmental care seemed outside the NICU medical model and was considered by some as an ‘add-on’ to care once the technical and medical tasks had been addressed.5 As developmental care initiatives began to be introduced, these initiatives received little acknowledgment from the wider team as contributing to pēpi or whanau outcomes. Keywords: auckland; care; new; nicu; nurses; nursing; zealand
• How can healthcare professionals influence the political agenda to improve newborn care? Translation into practice by Janssens , Kelly (2023) - Over and above helping teams evaluate developmental care practices in their neonatal units, the goal was to establish and ensure quality care for preterm born babies by additionally incentivizing train- ing in NIDCAP and FINE. An overview of key events that led to a structural approach to supporting developmental care in Belgium. Keywords: breastfeeding; care; preterm
• Psycho-Neonatology: Working with parents, preterm infants, and staff. The outcome of former preterm infants 20 years later by Brisch , Karl Heinz; Walter, Carmen (2023) - Axelin A, Salantera S, Lehtonen L. (2006) ‘Facilitated tucking by parents’ in pain management of preterm infants— a randomized crossover trial. Obeidat H, Kahalaf I, Callister LC, et al. (2009) Use of facilitated tucking for nonpharmacological pain management in preterm infants: A systematic review. Keywords: attachment; care; doi; infants; parents; preterm
• Our true story of love, science, and a transformative promise by Jackson, Yamile (2023) - H Diet and Nutrition, ACII, DLDU Family Representative, Dublin, Ireland email: mandy.daly@yahoo.co.uk Jennifer Degl, MS Family Representative, New York, USA email: jenniferdegl@gmail.com Dalia Silberstein, RN, PhD NIDCAP Trainer Co-Director, Israel NIDCAP Training Center email: dalia.silberstein@clalit.org.il Apoorva Sudini, BS Healthcare Associate PricewaterhouseCoopers, New York, NY email: apoorva.sudini@pwc.com Charlotte Tscherning, MD, PhD Division Chief of Neonatology, Sidra Med- icine, Doha, Qatar email: charlottecasper66@gmail.com Juzer Tyebkhan, MBBS NIDCAP Trainer Director, Edmonton NIDCAP Training Centre email: juzer.tyebkhan@ albertahealthservices.ca STAFF Rodd E. Hedlund, MEd Director, NIDCAP Nursery Program NIDCAP Trainer email: nidcapnurserydirector@ nidcap.org Sandra Kosta, BA Executive Director of Administration and Finance email: sandra.kosta@childrens. Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. Keywords: care; email; kangaroo; nicu; nidcap; staff; trainer; training; zachary
• Inspiring Global Outcomes – Kangaroo Mother Care by Pussell, Kylie (2023) - In helping more babies and families have earlier access to kangaroo care and be more involved in their baby’s neonatal journey as the primary caregivers, we can work toward zero separation, saving more lives and creating better, healthier outcomes. ‘Preterm babies can survive, thrive, and change the world – but each baby must be given that chance,’ said Dr. Tedros Ad- hanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. Keywords: babies; care; kangaroo; parents
• Moral Agents on the NICU Stage by Alberts, Jeffery R; Smith, David H (2023) - Indeed, we learn that NICU nurses are the players most vul- nerable to moral distress and burnout. His studies in Aus- tralia and by others in Italy and the U.S. have documented moral distress and burnout in NICU nurses. Keywords: barr; care; distress; nicu; nurses
• Translating data on brain development into practice by Sizun, Jacques (2023) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. Dominique Haumont identified ten points where NIDCAP impacts early developmental care, including assessment of pain, kangaroo care, and sleep orga- nization.28 Keywords: brain; care; development; doi; evidence; infants; newborn; nidcap; pain; preterm; skin; sleep; studies; study
• NIDCAP leader profile: Monique Oude Reimer-van Kilsdonk by Oude reimer - van Kilsdonk, Monique (2023) - Previously I was a Neonatal Intensive Care nurse and since 2004 I have worked for NIDCAP as Patient Care Advisor and NIDCAP Trainer. After my NIDCAP certification, outside of my hours as a nurse, I was able to perform NIDCAP observations on the unit one day a week. Keywords: care; nidcap; training
• French Polynesia by Sizun, Jacques (2023) - That year, all medical and nursing staff benefited from a short training (two days), ‘Introduction to developmental care’ focused on brain development, the importance of the early environment, the crucial role of parents, and system change. One of the challenges in maintaining an optimal quality of developmental care is the high turnover of the nursing team. Keywords: care; child; french
• International Publications: Selected 2023 by Spence, Kaye; Maestro Lopez, Maria (2023) - Parents who spent more hours in intensive care units with their low birthweight newborn infant did not achieve autonomous care faster. Petersson MÅ, Benzein E, Massoudi P, Wåhlin I, Persson C. Parents’ experienc- es of the significance of interpersonal interactions for becoming parents and a family during neonatal intensive care. Keywords: care; developmental; doi; epub; free; neonatal; nidcap; parents; pmid
• Developmental Observer by Spence, Kaye (2023) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. NIDCAP Training and implementation of brain-care practices The French EPIPAGE study gives us information on the implementation of medical and nursing practices such as skin-to-skin, breastfeeding support, and pain control, and the association with professional education and training.26,27 The authors observed large unit-level variations not explained by differences in infants’ characteristics across units, but possibly explained by neurodevelopmental care policies and training. Keywords: apib; babies; baby; brain; care; center; children; contact; developmental; director; doi; email; family; hospital; infants; interventions; learning; medical; neonatal; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; observer; pain; parents; phd; pmid; preterm; professionals; research; skin; sleep; support; time; trainer; training; unit; university; use; work
• Editorial : A milestone in a shared journey by Spence, Kaye (2024) - 2 • 2024 • Developmental Observer The echoes of the 34th Annual NIDCAP Trainers Meeting are still resonating, marking yet another milestone in our shared journey of promoting developmental care for hospitalized newborns. Kaye Spence AM FACNN Senior Editor – Developmental Observer Adjunct Associate Professor / Clinical Nurse Consultant Australasian NIDCAP Training Centre / Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network / Western Sydney University / Australia Erratum. Keywords: care; nidcap; work
• Developmental Observer: Vol 17, Issue 1, 2024 by Spence, Kaye (2024) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. The key to resilience and well-being in infants, families, healthcare professionals, and even whole systems is through embedding understandings and support for all those indi- viduals with consistently well-integrated, infant-family-staff mutually regulating NIDCAP care. Keywords: care; caregiving; center; children; contact; director; doi; email; environment; experience; families; family; group; health; hospital; infants; newborns; nicu; nidcap; nidcap care; nidcap training; observer; pain; parents; phd; preterm; professional; research; resilience; results; state; stress; study; support; t r; time; training; university; work
• The Inaugural Heidelise Als Lecture: The Synactive Theory, NIDCAP, and Resilience by Buehler, Deborah (2024) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. The key to resilience and well-being in infants, families, healthcare professionals, and even whole systems is through embedding understandings and support for all those indi- viduals with consistently well-integrated, infant-family-staff mutually regulating NIDCAP care. Keywords: care; family; health; heidelise; hospital; infant; nidcap; observer; parents; resilience; support
• Creating Awareness Of The Impact Of Neurodevelopmental Care In A Level 4 Multicultural Greenfield NICU: A Quality Improvement Project Implementing Fine by Mazlan , M; Qureshi, N; George , B; Dela Cruz , A; Motala, R; Tscherning, C (2024) - A multi- disciplinary team was formed to identify the challenges of the NICU and address areas where incremental changes would have a significant impact on neurodevelopmental care. Aim The aim is to improve and promote awareness and implemen- tation of neurodevelopmental care. Keywords: care; team
• The skincubator: a novel device for early prolonged skin-to-skin care for very and extreme preterm neonates. by Nitzan, I; Bin Nun , A; Hammerman, C; Kagan , T; Metrikin-Gold, A (2024) - Initial temperature drop during Skincubator care was smaller than in t-SSC (0.2º±0.1 vs 0.5º±0.3 P<0.001 n=35). Methods A safety trial comparing thermal stability during traditional-SSC (t- SSC) sessions, and Skincubator sessions was conducted. Keywords: care; infants; nidcap; skincubator; ssc
• Historical roots of developmental care in newborn infants : A bibliometric analysis using reference publication year spectroscopy by Smith, M; Marx , W; Anand , KS; Haunschild, R; Sizun , J; Roué , JM (2024) - A I N E R S M E E T I N G 2 0 2 3 Currently, some kind of developmental care is to be found in most Neonatal Intensive care Units (NICU), and the presence and participation of the parents are considered fundamental by neonatologists worldwide. Initial temperature drop during Skincubator care was smaller than in t-SSC (0.2º±0.1 vs 0.5º±0.3 P<0.001 n=35). Keywords: care; skincubator
• Global Perspective on Developmental Care – China by Hu, Xiaojing (2024) - In 2019, I made a special trip to Boston Children's Hospital for a few days of study, and subsequently engaged in an intensive course on NIDCAP observation and report writing with Professor Dorothy Vittner for another few days. We acknowledge that it is not feasible for one nurse to handle the care of one infant per shift, but we are also working on enhancing the specific details of clinical care. Keywords: care; hospital; nidcap
• Developmental Observer: Vol 17, Issue 2, 2024 by Spence, Kaye (2024) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. With the support of Dr Graciela Basso, who was crucial in the implementation and integration of NIDCAP care at the Neonatology Unit level and at the hospital system level, and even at the national level in Portugal. Keywords: baby; care; center; contact; day; development; director; email; families; family; hospital; infant; life; newborn; nicu; nidcap; nidcap training; nurses; observer; parents; phd; professionals; staff; support; team; trainer; training; training center; unit; university; years
• Editorial - Spreading the word by Spence, Kaye (2024) - The dissemination of such initiatives under- scores the expanding influence of NFI, as it endeavours to ele- vate the standard of care for hospitalized newborns worldwide, while simultaneously bolstering its professional membership. Kaye Spence AM FACNN Senior Editor – Developmental Observer Adjunct Associate Professor / Clinical Nurse Consultant Australasian NIDCAP Training Centre / Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network / Western Sydney University / Australia Editorial focused topics. Keywords: care; nidcap
• Supporting closeness - building relationships - COINN 2024 by Spence, Kaye; Gladbo Salmonsen, Tenna (2024) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. Three issues stood out for us: the power of skin-to-skin on closeness and brain development, the global issues threatening newborn care and survival in devel- oping countries, and the need for a universal education pro- gram for developmentally supportive family and infant care. Keywords: care; infant; international; newborn; nfi; nidcap; nurses; parents; training
• Danish NIDCAP Training Center - Aahus by Gladbo Salmonsen, Tenna; Jorgensen, Eva (2024) - The NIDCAP Jannie Haaber RN, Intensive care nurse, NIDCAP Trainer and Director of the NIDCAP Training Center and Porntiva Poorisrisak PhD, Consultant Neonatologist, APIB Professional, Co-director of the NIDCAP Training Center DOI:10.14434/dov17i2.38132 In our NIDCAP Training Center, the primary objective is to encourage the implementation of developmental supportive care for the growth and well-being of newborn infants and their families. Keywords: care; center; infant; nidcap; training
• Danish NIDCAP Training Center - Copenhagen by Haaber, Jannie ; Poorisrisak, Porntiva (2024) - The NIDCAP Jannie Haaber RN, Intensive care nurse, NIDCAP Trainer and Director of the NIDCAP Training Center and Porntiva Poorisrisak PhD, Consultant Neonatologist, APIB Professional, Co-director of the NIDCAP Training Center DOI:10.14434/dov17i2.38132 2024 • Developmental Observer • 23 Nursery Program and guidelines will be used in preparation for our new Childrens Hospital - Mary Elizabeth Hospital- for Children, Teens, and Expecting Families for Children. In August 2023, we reached the milestone to become a NIDCAP Training Center where Jannie finished as NIDCAP trainer and we could celebrate having two more NIDCAP Pro- fessionals in the unit- Laerke Johanne Bager and Maria Clemenn Kaas, two intensive care nurses. Keywords: care; center; family; nidcap; training; unit
• NIDCAP Leader - Fatima Clemente by Clementine, Fatima (2024) - With the support of Dr Graciela Basso, who was crucial in the implementation and integration of NIDCAP care at the Neonatology Unit level and at the hospital system level, and even at the national level in Portugal. Implementing NIDCAP care takes time and practice. Keywords: care; family; nidcap; support; training
• Being an advocate for newborn care in Hungary by Nagy Bonnard, Livia (2024) - What does it take to become a dedicated advocate and cre- ate the Right(s) beside you Association for premature babies in Hungary? Our association was founded in September 2015 with the aim of bringing together in a unique way doctors, health professionals, decision makers and NGOs representing parents of premature babies to ensure that every baby born prematurely or sick has the best possible chance of survival with the best possible quality of life. Keywords: baby; care; nicu; son
• Editorial: Reflection by Spence, Kaye (2024) - Deborah has authored and co- authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. Her work has focused on NIDCAP research, education and ment- orship, and awareness. Keywords: care; nidcap; reflection
• Reflection as a catalyst for learning: A practical guide by Spence, Kaye; Warren, Inga (2024) - By examining their experiences through the lens of reflection, these students have not only deepened their understanding of infant care but also developed a greater sensitivity to the needs and emotions of the babies and families they support. Historically, reflection has been a linchpin in learning paradigms, enabling individuals to dissect events, analyse activities, and assimilate knowledge. Keywords: care; practice; reflection; situation
• Vale Stanley N Graven MD: A visionary for the care of babies and families by Browne, Joy V (2024) - Dr. Graven also chaired the development of standards for neonatology practice resulting in the birth of neonatology as a recognized subspecialty.1 Dr. Graven and his lifelong partner, Mavis, worked to change other less recognized systems and practices typical in early NICUs; those of restricting parents from being with their babies in intensive care. Dr. Graven also recognized the impact of the physical/ sensory environment on babies in intensive care. Keywords: babies; care; environment; graven; journal
• Global Perspectives on Developmental Care - Iran by Hasanpour, Marzieh ; Hosseni, Mohammad Bagher; Heidarzadeh, Mohammad (2024) - About two years ago, the continuous KMC Figure 1: Timeline of developmental care implementation in Iran1 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Introduction of NIDCAP to neonatologists and nurses First NIDCAP workshop for 65 personnel from different universities Study visit to the Netherlands MOHME formally adopted NIDCAP First National Iranian committee for NIDCAP First survey on NIDCAP to 23 hospitals and 9 universities Preparation of 4 Iranian Centers for NIDCAP Training Visit to Sophia Hospital in the Netherlands Iranian trainers for NIDCAP chosen Four training sessions provided by Drs Als and Conneman Trainees worked to incorporate NIDCAP in their NICUs Spiritual and holistic care in the NICUs Budget allocated for NIDCAP Introductory NIDCAP workshops in 13 universities NIDCAP introduced at numerous conferences Workshop for Nursing Academia at Iran Medical Center Translation and adaptation of NFI documents for NIDCAP program Two-day NIDCAP Seminar in Tehran for 350 participants Developmental care packages prepared Final NIDCAP training completed, and 10 trainees certified as NIDCAP Professionals under Dr Als NIDCAP training completed in Tabriz and Shiraz 16 NIDCAP Professionals Support for scientific references for neonatal program 17 NICU pediatricians, neonatologists and nurses in Tehran, Tabriz, and Shiraz certified as NIDCAP professionals Support to scale-up NIDCAP nationally through two training workshops for 134 experts from 19 medical universities and nursing midwifery faculty Support for NIDCAP Professionals to maintain their membership of the NFI Support for the assessment of NIDCAP in NICUs based on the minimum standards for NIDCAP 16 • 2024 • Developmental Observer department started and is the first continuous KMC depart- ment with comfort facilities and 24-hour presence of mothers in Iran. NIDCAP Certifications During Dr. Conneman’s last visit in April 2017, NIDCAP certification was achieved for the 16 neonatologists and nurses working in the four pilot hospitals. Keywords: care; developmental; health; hospital; iran; neonatal; nicu; nidcap; tehran
• Selected Publications - 2023-2024 by Spence, Kaye; Lopez Maestro, Maria (2024) - Duffy N, Hickey L, Treyvaud K, Delany C. 360-degree phenomenology: A qualitative approach to exploring the infant experience of hospitalisation in neonatal intensive care. Joint observation in NICU (JOIN): A randomized controlled trial testing an early, one-session intervention during preterm care to improve perceived maternal self-efficacy and other mental health outcomes. Keywords: apr; article; care; developmental; doi; epub; infants; jan; jun; mar; neonatal; nurs; pediatr; pmid; preterm; review; unit
• Developmental Observer by Spence, Kaye (2025) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. NIDCAP care involves creating a culture where the language used consistently respects and values fam- ilies, team members, and the infants themselves, reinforcing a collaborative and compassionate approach to care. Keywords: c t; care; center; centre; contact; des; development; director; e e; e r; education; email; experience; families; family; feeding; fine; formation; formation nidcap; france; french; group; healthcare; hospital; implementation; infants; les; model; n e; nicu; nidcap; nidcap care; nidcap training; observer; parents; professionals; r s; research; support; t r; toulouse; trainer; training center; unit; university; valenciennes
• Shaped by Wisdom: Heidelise Als Lecture 2024 by Butler, Samantha (2025) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. NIDCAP care involves creating a culture where the language used consistently respects and values fam- ilies, team members, and the infants themselves, reinforcing a collaborative and compassionate approach to care. Keywords: als; approach; care; center; nidcap; trainer; training
• Using Social Network Analysis to Understand the Effect of Developmental Care Education by Griffiths, Nadine; Webb, Annabel; Spence, Kaye; Popat, Himanshu; Sinclair, Lynn (2025) - We observed that the proportion of care provided by DC-educated nurses (density of DC education network) correlated with infant surgery group (Figure 1). Additional variables included in the analysis were caregiving duration, infant surgery type (group), infant severity of illness variables, and gestational age. Keywords: care; caregiving; education; infant
• The Impact of a Developmental Care Skin-To-Skin Quality Improvement Project as Part of our Process of Becoming A NIDCAP Certified Unit. by Millette, I; St-Hilaire , M; U-Beaumier , CA (2025) - Despite this small sample, we were able to demonstrate that this project not only improved SSC duration and frequency in our NICU but also that NIDCAP Professional follow-up almost doubled the duration of SSC sessions. In the process of becoming a NIDCAP Training Center Unit and to foster parental presence and participation in care, we aimed to improve SSC session duration and frequency, as primary objectives for this project. Keywords: care; duration; infant; nidcap; ssc
• This is the best ward round I have ever been a part of: Implementing Developmental Care Ward Rounds in A Tertiary Neonatal Unit in The UK. by Sammut, A; Lim, AM; Jurikova, M; Furtado , M; Hicks, B (2025) - WHO Global Position Paper and Implementation Strategy on kangaroo mother care call for fundamental reorganisation of maternal infant care. Coughlin M, DeWolfe T, Fuller K. Quality indicators for developmental care: a trauma informed conceptual model as an exemplar for change. Keywords: care; families; nidcap
• Education sessions improve knowledge and attitudes of parents in a neonatal intensive care unit from a low-income country. by Youness, N; Masri, S; Abdel Nour , G; Charafeddine, L (2025) - Methods Since August 2016, parent education sessions were held in the NICU as part of the unit's NIDCAP implementation process. Additionally, involving former NICU parents to share their ex- perience and perspectives during those sessions may be more welcoming. Keywords: care; parents
• Exploring An Interdisciplinary Support Model for ROP Exams in the NICU by Borzi, A (2025) - Post-exam care involves a holistic nurse providing comforting and grounding techniques. This model is grounded in five core measures of trauma-informed, age-appropriate care1 and Als’ synactive theory of infant devel- opment,2 which emphasizes the importance of individualized and developmentally supportive care for preterm infants. Keywords: care; exam; model
• The Synactive Model: Individuals, Hospitals, and Systems by Buehler, Deborah (2025) - Each of the layers: infants, families, hospital systems and entire communities are constantly evolving. Synactive Model of Behavioral Organization – Its Origins In her work, Dr. Als drew from her personal parenting expe- riences as well as her clinical study of mother/infant relation- ships, including the study of infants with irritability and hy- persensitivity. Keywords: care; development; infants; model; nidcap
• Developmental Observer: 2025 - Volume 18, Issue 2 by Spence, Kaye (2025) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. The NFI provides the framework for NIDCAP care with educational resources, formal training and mentoring to healthcare professionals and families. Keywords: aprendiz; babies; baby; bebé; care; center; children; como; contact; day; de la; del; delirium; development; director; doi; email; en el; experience; families; family; formación; hospital; infant; la pa; las; los; medical; más; neonatal; new; nicu; nidcap; nidcap care; nidcap training; nos; observer; para; parents; phd; professional; program; que; staff; support; team; time; trainer; training; training center; una; unit; university
• Editorial: New Voices, Lasting Legacies by Spence, Kaye (2025) - Deborah has authored and co-authored papers and manuals pertaining to NIDCAP care. Her work has focused on NIDCAP research, education and mentorship, and awareness. Keywords: care; nidcap; observer
• The INFA-Neo Program: Supporting Infants and Parents from the NIDCAP Perspective by Gregoraci, Angela (2025) - Individualized developmental infant care: How can we consistently promote the best short- and long-term development for all infants and families, while supporting care professionals and staff in ensuring their personal and profes- sional growth to implement relationship-based care effectively? Keywords: care; families; family; infant; nidcap; parents
• The Advanced Practicum in NIDCAP Training: Hidden Treasures for Trainees and Trainers : Translated to English by Silberstein, Dalia (2025) - NIDCAP training consists of several phases.1 Once the professional in training (hereafter, trainee) has demonstrated an appropriate conceptualization of the infant's behaviour and can formulate appropriate observations and care recommen- dations, the next phase in training is the Advanced Practicum (hereafter, AP). The core competence to be developed in NIDCAP training is the ability to ensure the individualization of care.1 Because of this, during AP, our ability to maintain the perspective of change and evolution advocated by the Synactive Theory of Develop- ment3 becomes essential and more evident. Keywords: care; infant; nidcap; training
• Editorial - Families at the Heart of NIDCAP by Spence, Kaye (2025) - From Doha in Qatar, Bindu George and her team describe their innovative family-integrated model, offering insight into how developmental care can be embraced within a culturally diverse setting. Let us take kangaroo care as an example. Keywords: care; nidcap
• Parental Intuition and Discerning Cues by Reginato Cascamo, Katie (2025) - 2025 • Developmental Observer • 19 that strengthen intuitive perception.4 Reflection further deep- ens this process, as mothers integrate rational and experien- tial knowledge into an inner path of knowing that reinforces confidence in their gut responses.7 Research demonstrates that parental intuition can detect child illness before clinical signs are apparent, underscoring the value of trusting and articulating these insights in healthcare contexts.1 Together, these practices illustrate that intuitive listening is not mystical, but rather a cul- tivated skill grounded in embodied experience, neurobiological adaptation, and relational attunement. In this way, parental intuition acts as both a psychosocial and clinical resource. Keywords: care; intuition; kathy; knowing; knowledge; nidcap; weeks
• SNUGS: Bridging Cultures and Languages Through A Culturally Sensitive Family Support Program by George, Bindu Mary; Greig, Lyndola; Dela Cruz, Armida; Siminivas, Niva (2025) - NICU parents were invited to share their journeys and nursing and Allied health teams were encouraged to co-lead sessions thereby strengthening the staff multidisciplinary team-parent bond and nurse empowerment. Additional plans include exploring the development of a storytelling and parent education tool web page or App for NICU families. Keywords: care; family; nicu; sessions; snugs; staff; support
• Two Tiny Heartbeats: A Journey Through a Twin Pregnancy and Care in a Dutch NICU by Ernst, Stephanie (2025) - Stephanie’s experience — filled with worry, NICU alarms, and the constant weight of “what if” — shaped her into something more than a survivor. The NFI provides the framework for NIDCAP care with educational resources, formal training and mentoring to healthcare professionals and families. Keywords: care; girls; hospital; nicu; twin

• Evaluation of “CLE” an Intermediate Family Centered Developmental Care Program Based on the Theoretical Concept of the Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) by Druart, D.; Grevesse, L.; Janssens, K.; Tackoen, M.; Van Herreweghe, I. (2019) - Druart Da, Grevesse Lb, Janssens Kc, Tackoen Ma, Van Herreweghe Ia aNICU St Pierre University Hospital, Brussels NIDCAP® Training Center, Brussels, Belgium bService Public Fédéral - Santé Publique, Sécurité de la Chaîne alimentaire et Environnement, Brussels NIDCAP® training center, Brussels, Belgium cService Public Fédéral - Santé Publique, Sécurité de la Chaîne alimentaire et Environnement, UZ Leuven, Belgium Training Center Since 2012 the implemen- tation of NIDCAP has been subsidized by the government. Keywords: nidcap; training
• Online Video-based Supplement for Assessment of Preterm Infant Behavior (APIB) and Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) Education by Dyck, N.; Tyebkhan, J. M.; Nykipilo, A. (2019) - Video offers several advantages over verbal or written communication and education, and has been shown to improve technical and non-technical neonatal resuscitation skills.1 The presentation of large amounts of information in a limited amount of space and time, simplifying complex/abstract concepts, demonstrating how concepts/subjects in motion relate to one another, engaging audience attention and retention of information are enhanced2; all these are educational goals of NIDCAP Training. Videos reviewed by JMT and AN were categorized according to Synactive Subsystems, (for the NIDCAP section)3 and Systems, Packages or Summary Scales (for the APIB section).4 Many video clips raised questions related to NIDCAP observations and/or APIB examinations and scoring and were placed in a separate section, ‘Platform for Debate’. Keywords: nidcap; training; video
• Diversification of Developmental Care Trainings: How and Why? by Ratynski, N.; Minguy, S.; Olivard, I.; Sizun, J. (2019) - 10 • 2019 • Developmental Observer Newborn Individualized Developmental Care (NIDCAP) is the gold standard of early intervention training. Results/Findings - Short training programs could be considered as an introduc- tion to the NIDCAP Training; - Thousands of professionals from French-speaking NICUs (level II or III), maternity units or follow-up clinics or private medical offices have been trained with a high satisfaction level; - This catalogue offers an opportunity to reach people working outside the level III NICUs; and - Short courses trainers could be future candidates to become NIDCAP trainers Conclusion This strategy participates to the financial stability, the indepen- dence and the sustainability of the Brest NIDCAP Training Center. Keywords: infants; nidcap; training
• A Novice Trainer's Look: Shining Moments and Early Lessons Learned by Silberstein, Dalia (2019) - Much energy is invested by trainees who undertake NIDCAP training and integrate it in their already demanding personal and profes- sional lives. That hidden magic of the reflection component of training, lays in the fact that when articulating it, trainees do not follow a specific structure or script, nor are constrained to address a par- ticular theme, or compelled to consider each and every aspect of the caregiving interaction. Keywords: infant; nidcap; trainee; training
• NIDCAP Training Centers Around the World: Australasian NIDCAP Training Centre- Sydney Australia by Spence, Kaye (2019) - In 2017 we had our first NIDCAP Trainer – Nadine Griffiths. The current Board consists of: Angela Casey (Nurse Manager), Robert Halliday (Neonatologist representative), Kristen James Nunez (NIDCAP Profes- sional representative), Cathryn Crowle (Allied Heath Representative), Eleni Gerassis (Parent representative), Nadine Griffiths (NIDCAP Trainer), Gordon Thomas (Head, Department of Surgery), Daphne D-Cruz (neonatologist for external organisation) and Donna Waters (Dean, Sydney Nursing School, Sydney University). Keywords: centre; nidcap; trainer; training
• The UK NIDCAP Centre at University College London Hospital (UCLH) by Kennedy, Gillian (2021) - FINE Level 3, which supports innovation and leadership, has also been available with Inga Warren and Beverley Hicks as mentors. On a wider scale, both trainers, Inga Warren and Gillian Kennedy present regularly at interna tional conferences. Keywords: centre; inga; nidcap; training; warren
• NIDCAP Partners with Industrial Design: Training for Success by Tyebkhan, Juzer; Van der Leek, Caleb; Gustin, Bella; Salamon, Kamil; von Hauff, Patrick (2022) - For this first phase of our collabora- tive project, ID students focused on the educational pathway of NIDCAP Training, i.e. preliminary readings, didactic lecture, individual training, Advanced Practicum of NIDCAP training, and certification. The ID approach of interviews and design-based methodology enabled critical analysis and distil- lation of the multilayered steps of NIDCAP Training. Keywords: design; edmonton; nidcap; training
• Educating, training, recruiting and retaining the best: Is NIDCAP ready for Generation Z? by Chubba, Roman; Tyebkhan, Juzer (2023) - Therefore, it is likely that many of the traits of Gen Z are indeed universal, and not limited to Western cultures.2 Note that the birth years of the generations vary slightly depending on the source and that there is overlap across adjacent generations for some of the traits. Generation Z Characteristics Gen Z is the cohort born after 1995 and thus makes up a large majority of today’s younger workforce. Keywords: baby; gen; generation; nidcap; training
• A small newborn, a whole person by Pfieffer, Frierer; Pfieffer, Elena (2023) - NIDCAP Federation International Board of Directors and Staff 2022–2023 PRESIDENT Deborah Buehler, PhD NIDCAP Master Trainer APIB Trainer Director, West Coast NIDCAP and APIB Training Center email: nfipresident@nidcap.org VICE PRESIDENT Dorothy Vittner, PhD, RN, FAAN Senior NIDCAP Trainer West Coast NIDCAP & APIB Training Center email: dvitt8@gmail.com TREASURER Gloria McAnulty, PhD National NIDCAP Training Center email: gloria.mcanulty@childrens.harvard. edu CO-TREASURER Jennifer Hofherr, MS, OTR/L, CNT National NIDCAP Training Center NIDCAP Trainer Children's Hospital of University of Illinois NIDCAP Training Center email: jennifer.hofherr@nationwidechildrens.org SECRETARY Jean Powlesland, RN, MS NIDCAP Trainer Director, Children’s Hospital of University of Illinois NIDCAP Training Center email: nidcapchicago@gmail.com Fatima Clemente, MD NIDCAP Trainer Co-Director, São João NIDCAP Training Center email: clemente.fatima@gmail.com Mandy Daly, Dip. Keywords: child; email; mattis; nidcap; observer; parents; trainer; training
• Italian Modena NIDCAP Training Centre by Bertoncelli, Natascha (2023) - I N I N G C E N T E R S W O R L D W I D E Italian Modena NIDCAP Training Centre The NICU of Modena has based its care on the family-centred principles for years thanks to Prof. Ferrari Fabrizio, who guided the NICU for over 40 years. https://doi.org/10.3390/children9121917 Modena NIDCAP team World NIDCAP Day Annual NFI Membership Meeting Wednesday, October 25, 2023 2:30-4:00 PM CDT Hyatt Lodge 2815 Jorie Boulevard Oak Brook, Illinois, USA We welcome members to attend in-person or virtually Keywords: modena; nicu; nidcap; training
• Assessment of Preterm Infant's Behavior: Insights and projections for the future by Browne, Joy V (2023) - Assessment of Preterm Infants’ Behavior: Insights from the Field and Projections for the Future Joy V. Browne, PhD, PCNS, IMH-E NIDCAP Senior Master Trainer and APIB Trainer, New Mexico, USA With appreciation and reflections of my journey in APIB training and practice with Dr. Elsa Sell, my APIB Trainer so long ago. The survey was created to know how learning the APIB has influenced the activities in which APIB Professionals engage. Keywords: apib; baby; nidcap; professionals; trainer; training; use
• NIDCAP Training Centers Worldwide. Saint-Brieuc, France by Aurélie, Guillou (2024) - DOI: 10.14434/do.v17i3.39758 2024 • Developmental Observer • 19 Saint-Brieuc NIDCAP Training Center Team Group photo (above), From left to right : • Mme Robin-Bregeon Marie-Noelle, Administrative Manager of St Brieuc NIDCAP Training Center • Dr. Andro-Garçon Marie-Cécile, MD, NIDCAP Professional and director of St Brieuc NIDCAP Training Center • Mme Guillou Aurélie, RN and NIDCAP and NBO Trainer aurelie.guillou@armorsante.bzh • Mme Coer Manuella, RN and NIDCAP Professional • Mme Josse Anne-Claire, RN and NIDCAP Professional • Mme Le Clec’h Aurélie, RN and NIDCAP Professional Saint-Brieuc NIDCAP Training Center Team Click Here to Visit the Saint-Brieuc NIDCAP Training Center Website Mme Collet Cécile, RN and NIDCAP Professional and NBO Mme Faijan Céline, RN and NIDCAP Professional and NBO Mathieu, NICU head-nurse and NIDCAP Professional https://ghtarmor.bzh/je-suis-professionnel-etudiant/nidcap-training-center-saint-brieuc/ All infants born before 33 weeks of gestation benefit from NIDCAP observations. Keywords: brieuc; nidcap; training
• do-40891 by None (None) - The different variables have a rating scale between 1 and 5 with 1 being minimum stress and 5 being maximum stress. Differences in average stress levels between both groups were compared using Student's t-test. Keywords: stress; training
• NIDCAP: Always a Journey by Perapoch, J; Camba, F; Gregorari, A; Anglès, R (2025) - The collaboration with other NIDCAP Training Centers such as “Sant Joan de Déu” and “12 de Octubre”. • High NIDCAP implementation was associated with high- er proportions of exclusive - only breast- breast milk feeding at discharge: adjusted odds ratio 4.72 (95% CI 2.79-7.99). Keywords: breast; feeding; group; nidcap; training
• Reflections on Nurturing NIDCAP Trainers-in-Training: Creating Safe Relations and Using Reflective Process to Enhance Self-expansion. hips, Safe SpacesSpaces by Browne, Joy; Parez, Angeline; Van Dijk, Eveline; keymeulen, Annelies (2025) - You naturally reflect spontaneously once you graduate from NIDCAP training, but there are always aspects you don't automatically think about or write down. Application of the self-expansion model to NIDCAP training emphasizes the need for a trusting relationship with a NIDCAP Master Trainer, a safe space within which to share vulnerabilities, challenges and training successes, and the use of a reflective process to enhance their capacity for training others in the NIDCAP approach. Keywords: nidcap; process; self; trainer; training
• Amadea NIDCAP Training Center - Salzburg, Austria by Garzuly-Rieser, Teresa (2025) - A P T R A I N I N G C E N T E R S W O R L D W I D E Amadea NIDCAP Training Center Salzburg, Austria Teresa Garzuly-Rieser, RN, NIDCAP Trainer, Amadea NIDCAP Training Center Salzburg DOI:10.14434/do.v18i3.42180 Parent-child center in Salzburg 2025 • Developmental Observer • 11 was dedicated to NIDCAP, so the NIDCAP implementation process started and was strongly supported through the amaz- ing team and leadership. NIDCAP Training Center in Development The development of the Amadea NIDCAP Training Center in Salzburg began back in 2000, when Dr. Erna Hattinger-Jür- genssen heard Professor Heidelise Als speak at a conference in Heidelberg. Keywords: nidcap; training

• #everyhourstronger by Paul, Debra (2019) - And, as the scary moments become less frequent and less intense, we have learned that NICU families are brave, that we are brave, and that we will always be #everyhourstronger. Our son had a spontaneous intestinal perforation and had to be transported with the Flight for Life team to a higher level of care NICU where he could be monitored by a surgery team. Keywords: hospital; nicu; son
• Using Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) Philosophy and Principles in the Implementation of a NICU Book Sharing Program by Lacina, L; Roux, M; Kessler, C; Jain, V (2020) - Shared book reading can help parents promote literacy and reading achieve- ment in their children; it also enhances parent infant bonding and reduces parental stress.3 Intervening in the NICU encour- ages parents to continue reading to their infant post-discharge; however, such a book sharing program has not been carried out on a large scale in a heterogeneous and diverse population in the Cincinnati region. Conclusion Despite AAP recommendations, there exist significant gaps on giving anticipatory guidance to parents in the NICU about shared book reading. Keywords: nicu; parents; reading
• Putting Beauty at the Heart of the Healing Process by Ancora, Gina; Ancora, Gina; Lazzari, Sandra; Simeone, Natascia (2020) - Creating welcoming NICU environments offers opportunities for families to be at the center of the healing process, where they may feel supported and not so alone. Dostoevsky1 said “beauty will save the world”, and in our case it will help to reduce the stress of the NICU environment for newborn infants and their families. Keywords: beauty; nicu; parents
• A Father’s Journey by O’Regan, Kevin (2020) - After staying with Nikki as she moved through recovery and was transferred to her hospital room, I set off to the NICU to get an in-person update on Lucy and Maty. At first our time in the NICU moved slowly with what seemed like little progress from day to day. Keywords: girls; nicu; nikki; time
• Heartbreak and Hope during the Pandemic by Gilmore, Lindsay (2021) - After an incredibly traumatic few hours, the NICU team arrived and Luka was finally transported down to the Children’s Hospital in Aurora, Colorado. Kyle left to meet Luka as she arrived at the hospital, and our NICU journey began. Keywords: baby; hospital; luka; nicu; time
• Parents’ Involvement Template: A Tool to Standardize Caregivers’ Approach to Parents In NICU by Cosimo, A.C.; Bertoncelli, N (2023) - As the parent-baby triad is the core of family centered care, parents should be welcomed in the NICU, integrated, and involved in their baby’s care. This approach could help to promote and establish the bonding between parents and babies, despite obstacles due to early separation and admission to the NICU. Keywords: caregiver; nicu; parents
• Help Us Support Healing (HUSH): A Preliminary Assessment of Staff’s Estimates of Acoustic Noise in their Level 4 NICU by Dela Cruz, A; Cauan, R; Cauan , R (2024) - The average noise level within the incubators exceeded the rec- ommended baseline maximum of 45 dB. Of the various sources of NICU noise exceeding recommended levels, alarms from the cardiac monitors were the loudest. Yet, only about 21% of the 87 respondents had an accurate idea of the acceptable maximum decibel level for NICU noise (40-45 dB). Keywords: levels; nicu; noise
• NIDCAP Taught me to Listen by Reginato Cascamo, Katie (2024) - Early exploration of the NICU Parent Leader role led to identifying crucial workforce skills, reinforcing the idea that NICU parents could apply pre-NICU experiences to serve maternal-infant health. I had a notion to empower NICU parents with transferable skills, fostering economic self-sufficiency beyond the NICU. Keywords: burnout; giovanni; listening; nicu; nidcap; nurses
• Behind The Scenes - Rob Catalano by Catalano, Rob (2024) - Early exploration of the NICU Parent Leader role led to identifying crucial workforce skills, reinforcing the idea that NICU parents could apply pre-NICU experiences to serve maternal-infant health. I had a notion to empower NICU parents with transferable skills, fostering economic self-sufficiency beyond the NICU. Keywords: nicu; nidcap
• Sophia's story: How being a NICU sibling influenced my life by Gerassis, Sophia (2024) - H Diet and Nutrition, ACII, DLDU Family Representative, Dublin, Ireland email: mandy.daly@yahoo.co.uk Jennifer Degl, MS Family Representative, New York, USA email: jenniferdegl@gmail.com Dalia Silberstein, RN, PhD NIDCAP Trainer Co-Director, Israel NIDCAP Training Center email: daliasil1960@gmail.com Apoorva Sudini, BS Healthcare Associate PricewaterhouseCoopers, New York, NY email: asudini@outlook.com Charlotte Tscherning, MD, PhD Division Chief of Neonatology Oslo University Hospital, Norway email: charlottecasper66@gmail.com Juzer Tyebkhan, MBBS NIDCAP Trainer Director, Edmonton NIDCAP Training Centre email: juzer.tyebkhan@ albertahealthservices.ca STAFF Sandra Kosta, BA Executive Director of Administration and Finance email: sandra.kosta@childrens. harvard.edu FOUNDER OF THE NIDCAP FEDERATION INTERNATIONAL, INC. Heidelise Als, PhD 1940-2022 NIDCAP Founder, Past President 2001-2012 Senior NIDCAP Master Trainer Senior APIB Master Trainer Director, National NIDCAP Training Center, 1982-2022 Keywords: email; family; nicu; nidcap; sister
• Family Voices. A mother's perspective of the NICU experience: Passion for advocacy ignited. by Fawaz, Emily (2024) - I am grateful for the strength Dylan and I have gained as individuals, as parents, and in our marriage, and I am also grateful for the way my life trajectory has changed and for my growing passion to help other NICU families. While we may never be able to take away that pain completely, I wholeheartedly believe that supporting parents and connecting them with other NICU families both during and after their NICU stay will not only lighten the burden of the NICU but also have lasting impacts on the family in the weeks, months, and years to come. Keywords: boys; day; home; nicu; time
• Partnering with the NICU Parent Leader by Reginato Cascamo, K (2025) - NIRS monitoring can detect cerebral hy- poxia, even when other monitors do not show signs of clinical deterioration.1 Secondary outcomes were median infant pe- ripheral saturations, median infant heart rates and numbers of significant bradycardia or desaturation episodes during KMC intervention. NICU Parent Leaders are deeply aware of the perspectives of patients and families from their own experiences to improve healthcare quality, safety and patient experience. Keywords: healthcare; nicu; parent

• Evolution of National Guidelines to Support the Development of Preterm Infants’ Feeding Competencies and Breastfeeding by Van Herreweghe, Inge; Druart, Delphine (2021) - The parents first benefited from an interview with the team’s psychologist, followed by training in breastfeeding, developmental care, and premature infant feeding. Methodology Review of the literature, visits to other units, and dialogue with experts in preterm infant feeding competencies enabled us to: • Develop new work objectives and a new feeding protocol based on each infant’s individual behaviour and competence, which, in turn, enabled us to phase in semi-demand feeding. Keywords: baby; breastfeeding; feeding; infant; nidcap; parents
• Family centered music therapy for preterm infants and their parents in the NICU: a mixed- method study by Yakobson, D; Elefant, C; Litmanovitz, I; Bauers, S; Arnon, S (2022) - Key elements include specific attention to infant’s cues, parent, and environment, and to their reciprocal interaction; rhythmic entrainment; use of parents’ voice and musical heritage; and encapsulating the sounds of the intra- uterine environment. Parents reported that MT has promoted relaxation for both them and their baby, leading to feelings of intimacy and being-in-the moment. Keywords: infants; parents
• Is Early Kangaroo Care safe in preterm infants under 28 weeks gestation? by López Maestro , M; Collados , L; Jimenez, L; Serrrano , A; Melchor , P; Martinez, P (2024) - Despite this, pain management in NICUs is often suboptimal and remains challenging. This is to determine if parents could be reliable resources to optimize pain management in ill newborns. Keywords: edin; pain; parents; scale
• From Teaching to Coaching. Enhancing Communication with Parents in the Neonatal Unit Using Coaching Skills by Caci, Edvige; Warren, Inga (2025) - Preliminary feedback from the participants at the end of the session showed a high interest in the topic and a palpable need for training in coaching skills to enhance communication between healthcare professionals and parents. Conclusion This approach highlights the potential benefits of promoting coaching skills for parents and healthcare professionals in the neonatal unit by improving communication and fostering a stronger partnership. Keywords: coaching; parents
• Integrating Parent Lived Experience into Training Programmes for Healthcare Professionals by Durm, S; Warren, I (2025) - • Participants report that they highly value the powerful contribution of parents lived experience. Aims • To bring lived experience into the training space • Keywords: experience; parents

• Behavioural Language of Preterm Infants: Cardiorespirography and Video Recording of Motor Behaviour as an Integration of the Newborn Indiviualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) Observation by Ferrari, F.; Lucaccioni, L.; Ori, L.; Talucci, G.; Cuomo, G.; Bertoncelli, N. (2019) - Developmental Observer • 2019 • 5 Background Understanding early preterm infants’ strengths, vulnerabilities, thresholds to stress and disorganization, and behavioural state regulation is of great importance in view of the daily care in the NICU and stabilization of preterm infants. Method We tested a neurophysiological approach to the three NIDCAP observation systems using a cardiorespiratory monitor avail- able in all intensive care units and a time-synchronized video recording of the single motor behaviour of preterm infants. Keywords: infants; nidcap; preterm
• Even Moderate Visual Stimuli Leads to Behavioural Responses in Term and Preterm Infants by Zores, C.; Vincent, V.; Marchal, A.; Davy, M.; Astruc, D.; Dufour, A.; Kuhn, P. (2019) - Variation in NFCS score by population and intensity 3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 3 2.5 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 Preterm infants at 32 weeks PMA Preterm infants at 36 weeks PMA Preterm infants at 40 weeks PMA Term newborn infants 34 lux 100 lux 300 lux 34 lux 100 lux 300 lux 34 lux 100 lux 300 lux 34 lux 100 lux 300 lux Mean NFCS scores during pre-stimulation periods are represented in blue and during post-stimulation periods in red. In preterm infants at 40 weeks PMA, means NFCS score were significantly higher at 100 lux (T (36) = 2.9, p = 0.006) and at 300 lux (T (36) = 2.8, p = 0.009) compared with those following 34 lux stimulations: respectively 1.6 (+/- 1.0) and 1.6 (+/- 1.1) vs 0.72 (+/- 0.83) for 34 lux. Keywords: infants; lux
• Intervention Strategies for the Poor Feeder in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit: External Pacing versus Imposed Regulation by Palmer, Marjorie Meyer (2020) - Then the 1980’s saw the birth of the Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP).1,2,3 Caregivers were suddenly made aware of the stress cues, signs, and signals that preterm infants demon- strated as they were struggling with feeding. It is difficult for many young infants to inhibit the sucking movement so as to be able to breathe which often results in oxygen desaturation or spells of deglutition apnea.11 Imposed Regulation is based on the defini- tion and description of the normal immature sucking pattern that is demonstrated by preterm infants. Keywords: feeding; infants; regulation; suck
• Predictive Relations between Pre-discharge APIB Scores and Post-term General Movement (GM) Assessment in Very Low Birth Weight Infants by Fujimoto, T; Ogaki, A; Inoue, T; Kawai, T; Tanaka, M; Kugo, M; Browne, J (2022) - Aims The aim of this study was to test whether there are systematic relations between APIB system scores before discharge and those of the GMs assessment around three months corrected age. Conclusions We found that APIB scores of the physiology and regulatory systems status in VLBW infants in the NICU/GCU predicted their General Movements GM scores at about three months corrected age, during the so-called fidgety period. Keywords: apib; infants
• Early Parenting Intervention – Biobehavioral Outcomes in infants with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (EPI- BOND): study protocol for an Italian multicenter randomized controlled trial: Journal Club Presentation by Thergaonkar, N (2022) - Improvement of infants’ behavioural and socio-emotional regulation will be measured by GRS coding system, based on infant behavioural regulation as well as Face-to-Face Still Face (FFSF) double exposure paradigm from a 10 min- ute unstructured mother- infant interaction with standard set of toys. • Salivary samples of mother and infant for cortisol and oxy- tocin will be collected at each assessment session (addition- al samples for infants will be taken at 15 (reactivity) and 30 (recovery) minutes after the FFSF procedure. Keywords: face; generation; infants; intervention; study
• The Importance of Doing Dual Diligence by Alberts, Jeffery R (2022) - The PIPP yields a numerical score of infant pain in three ranges (mild to severe). Johnston C, Campbell-Yeo M, Disher T, Benoit B, Fernandes A, Steiner D, Inglis D, Zee, R. (2017) Skin- to-skin care for procedural pain in neonates, Cochrane Database Systematic Reviews, 2 (2): CD008435. doi: 10.1002/14651858 5. Keywords: doi; ght; infants; non; pain; suctioning
• Supporting oral feeding in fragile infants: Introduction to SOFFI by Ross, Erin Sundseth (2022) - SOFFI® has been used as the training framework for several published studies and abstracts.3-5 These studies have shown it is an effective intervention model for preterm infants as well as term infants who are ill, the same populations typically seen within hospital NICUs. 12 • 2022 • Developmental Observer Supporting Oral Feeding in Fragile Infants (SOFFI®) is a comprehensive approach to feeding preterm infants and infants with medical comorbidities within the hospital setting and after discharge. Keywords: discharge; feeding; infants; soffi
• Quality of Sleep in a Level 3 NICU by Chabba, Roman; Tyebkhan, Juzer (2023) - Observation of sleep states and Sleep Wake cycles may be one method of assessing improvements in the quality of neurode- velopmental care in the NICU. This project evaluated the quality of sleep of infants in our level 3 NICU, as part of ongoing education and quality improvement. Keywords: infants; sleep
• Behavioural and physiological responses of infants post-surgery during nurse-delivered caregiving by Griffiths, N; Laing, S; Spence, K; Foureur, M; Popat, H; James-Nunez, K; Sinclair, L (2024) - H Diet and Nutrition, ACII, DLDU Family Representative, Dublin, Ireland email: mandy.daly@yahoo.co.uk Jennifer Degl, MS Family Representative, New York, USA email: jenniferdegl@gmail.com Dalia Silberstein, RN, PhD NIDCAP Trainer Co-Director, Israel NIDCAP Training Center email: daliasil1960@gmail.com Apoorva Sudini, BS Healthcare Associate PricewaterhouseCoopers, New York, NY email: asudini@outlook.com Charlotte Tscherning, MD, PhD Division Chief of Neonatology Oslo University Hospital, Norway email: charlottecasper66@gmail.com Juzer Tyebkhan, MBBS NIDCAP Trainer Director, Edmonton NIDCAP Training Centre email: juzer.tyebkhan@ albertahealthservices.ca STAFF Rodd E. Hedlund, MEd Director, NIDCAP Nursery Program NIDCAP Trainer email: nidcapnurserydirector@ nidcap.org Sandra Kosta, BA Executive Director of Administration and Finance email: sandra.kosta@childrens. harvard.edu FOUNDER OF THE NIDCAP FEDERATION INTERNATIONAL, INC. Heidelise Als, PhD 1940-2022 NIDCAP Founder, Past President 2001-2012 Senior NIDCAP Master Trainer Senior APIB Master Trainer Director, National NIDCAP Training Center, 1982-2022 https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjpo-2017-000025 https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjpo-2017-000025 Keywords: caregiving; email; infants; nidcap; trainer
• 34th Annual NIDCAP Trainers Meeting Summary and Reflection by Lawhon, gretchen (2024) - It is through nurturing relationships that we strive to support each infant, family, healthcare professional, and one another within the global community of the NIDCAP Fed- eration. Families are essential for the infant’s wellbeing. Keywords: families; family; infants; nidcap

• Early Discharge with Home Care Tube Feeding Program Benefits on Two Years Corrected Age Neurodevelopmental Outcomes, Breastfeeding and First Year Hospital Readmissions for Premature Infants by Losbar, J; Arnaud, C; Glorious, I; Lescure, S; Casper, C; Montjaux, N (2020) - EDHC preterm children were more likely to be breastfed at final discharge (OR = 3.59 8 • 2020 • Developmental Observer Objective Our objective was to determine the impact of an Early Discharge with Home Care Tube Feeding program (EDHC) – regular discharge on two-years corrected-age (CA) neurodevelopmental outcomes for preterm infants born between 25 and 35 gestational age (GA). Keywords: hospital; preterm

• John Buehler: NIDCAP Supporter by McAnulty, Gloria; Kosta, Sandra (2022) - 18 • 2022 • Developmental Observer In July of 2021, the NIDCAP Federation International (NFI) lost a friend, a true champion of our mission, and a generous benefactor, John Eugene Buehler, Jr. Through the Buehler Family Foundation, John and his wife Deborah, supported the NFI on a very personal level for 20 years. For John Buehler, the NIDCAP Federation International truly was a labor of love. Keywords: buehler; family; john; nfi

• Greetings from the Editor by Spence, Kaye (2020) - The abstract topics highlight the breadth of NIDCAP work from the science of Oxytocin, implementation strategies for programs of reading, use of volunteers, the CICU to refugee health. I would also like to receive manuscripts on any aspect of NIDCAP work so we can all benefit from innovation and experiences. Keywords: nfi; nidcap; observer

• Supporting Families in the Neonatal Setting: It’s Time to Get Creative! by James Nunez, K; Griffiths, N; Gittany, H (2020) - All (100%) of families that used the program identified they would recommend the program to other families. Families and babies were recruited to the program by the FSV using an opt in/opt out parent consent process; bedside docu- mentation identified families who consented for inclusion. Keywords: families; program
• NIDCAP Rounds: Reaching More Babies and Families by Giesen, J; Campbell, C (2022) - Conclusion By implementing NIDCAP rounds, we were able to use a small time-commitment to meet with many families. The premise for the project arose when, upon completion of training to become a NIDCAP Profes- sional, this writer posed the question, “Now that we’ve com- pleted training, how do we reach more babies in our limited time? Keywords: families; nidcap; rounds

• NIDCAP Influences Maternal/Newborn Health in the Embrace Refugee Birth Support Program by Frankel, K (2020) - The Embrace mentor, a NIDCAP trained provider, established trust and friendship by accompany- ing her to birth classes (instructed by another Karen immigrant) where she was educated on delivery, hospital policies, infant care, and family planning. Pregnant women in this community are at risk for poor prenatal care due to lack of transport, caring for other children, and lapses in Medicaid coverage.4,5 New arrivals struggle to learn English and to adapt to American customs. Keywords: birth; infant; mentor; nidcap
• The Mysterious Case of Maternal Heartbeat Sounds by Philbin, M K (2020) - Thus, behavior due to each mother’s own imprinting passes it to the next generation.2,4,5 Extrapolating lavishly, Salk proposed heartbeat sounds as “the basis of all later learning” and that a “universal, ...biological tendency to seek heartbeat sounds has survival value [and] …involves mutual satisfaction. 12 • 2020 • Developmental Observer Aims and Methods Many people believe that maternal heartbeat sounds dominate the uterine environment and that the fetus, preterm and term newborn prefer them.1,2,3 Keywords: heartbeat; infant; mother; salk; sounds
• Predictability of neonatal sucking for later developmental outcomes by Palmer, Marjorie Meyer (2022) - Infant feeding was classified as either normal or disorganized based on the NOMAS. Because of this, the skill of sucking has the unique ability to give insight into areas of the brain that may be damaged either during or before birth.10 In 2009, it was hypothesized that a standardized instrument Predictability of Neonatal Sucking for Later Developmental Outcomes Marjorie Meyer Palmer MA, NLP, CC-SLP, Neonatal/Pediatric Feeding Specialist, Speech-Language Pathologist, Founder/Director, NOMAS® International DOI: 10.14434/do.v15i1.33788 2022 • Developmental Observer • 11 for neonatal sucking could offer a cost-effective early screen- ing tool for preterm infants at greatest risk for developmental delay,11 and the NOMAS provides such a tool. Keywords: doi; feeding; infant; nomas; sucking; tongue
• Oxytocin and cortisol release is associated with premature infant neurobehavioral patterns by Vittner, Dorothy (2023) - We found that infants held by mothers demonstrating higher cor- tisol levels (t=2.249, p<.037) also demonstrated similarly high levels with fathers (t=2.156, p<.044) that were also associated with higher infant Stress summary scores. Additionally, these findings provide further evidence that neurobehavioral assessments can and should be incorporated into the care of preterm infants to identify an individualized plan of care to support the unique strengths of the infant’s current level of behavioral functioning. Keywords: infant; oxytocin; ssc
• Science Desk - Reflecting on motor cortex and it's place in developmental care by Alberts, Jeffery R (2024) - Lack of motor inputs from cortex probably explains the absence of fine motor control that typifies early infant movements. Simply put, during early infancy M1 is sensory cortex, not motor cortex! Keywords: brain; cortex; infant; motor; movements

• Reducing Noise Through Awareness in the NICU by Weis, J.; Haaber, J. (2019) - The software sends out noise reports on a weekly basis via email to key staff mem- bers, who use these reports as a basis for further discussion about noise at staff meetings. In 2016, the NICU at Rigshospitalet - Copenhagen University Hospital, collaborated with SoundEar™, a company that devel- ops noise-meters for indicating and collecting noise levels, to develop a software program that was appropriate and easy to use. Keywords: noise; staff

• Greetings from the Editor by Spence, Kaye (2019) - The abstracts included in this issue come from many countries such as Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, Iran, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and the USA which demonstrates the global spread of NIDCAP work. I hope the readers will be able to take home some useful ideas and help in reading some of the research around NIDCAP related concepts of care. Keywords: nfi; nidcap
• From the Editor by Spence, Kaye (2020) - To thrive as an organization in this rapidly changing world, the NFI must respond to the incredible realities faced by NIDCAP Trainers around the world. This unprecedented year is also creating challenges and a new normal for the NFI and NIDCAP efforts. Keywords: healthcare; nfi; nidcap
• From the Editor by Spence, Kaye (2021) - The NFI encourages highly attuned implementation of the Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) for all intensive, special care and newborn nurseries around the world. The NFI serves as the authoritative leader for research, development, and dissemination of NIDCAP, and for the certification of trainers, healthcare professionals, and nurseries in the NIDCAP approach. Keywords: nfi; nidcap
• Twenty Years for the NFI by Buehler, Deborah; Kosta, Sandra (2021) - Deborah Buehler, PhD, Sandra Kosta, BA DOI: 10.14434/do.v14i2.32998 developmentalobserver@nidcap.org Developmental Observer • 2021 • 3 Members are welcome and encouraged to participate in the NFI’s mission to advance the philosophy and science of NIDCAP care and assure the quality of NIDCAP education, training, mentoring and certification for professionals and hospital systems. The NFI continues to evolve, and to oversee, develop and support the NIDCAP model, caregiving and training approach. Keywords: nfi; nidcap
• Final Reflections on the 33rd Annual NIDCAP Trainers Meeting, Bad Boll, Germany by Lawhon, gretchen (2023) - That was a lot easier when you were physically present with us Heidi, but we will do our best. I’ve been so looking forward to reconnecting with everyone and renewing relation- ships, and yet, my joy and anticipation are caught and held back by the undeniable absence of you, Heidi, our esteemed leader in all things NFI. Keywords: heidi; meeting; nfi; nidcap; work

• In Conversation with Heidelise Als by Spence, Kaye (2019) - This issue also features stories about NIDCAP Training, from the point of view of a novice NIDCAP Trainer and a NIDCAP Trainee challenged by her Advanced Practicum. The NFI encourages highly attuned implementation of the Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) for all intensive, special care and newborn nurseries around the world. Keywords: baby; conference; international; nidcap; nurses
• My Little Warrior by Azzopardi, Tracey; Paul, Debra (2020) - Progress measured in baby steps Post-surgery the darkest green bile kept coming out of Matilda’s oral venting tube for weeks. If I had a question, I would put it in my phone and ask the appropriate person on Matilda’s medical team. Keywords: baby; day; matilda; skin
• Does caffeine use support suck/swallow/breathe coordination during breast and bottle, and lead to an earlier discharge? by Takata, Brenda (2022) - Caffeine’s favorable effect on car- diorespiratory physiology in stabilizing systemic and cerebral hemodynamics and its capacity to mitigate hypoxic respiratory depression may play a part in neuroprotection.5 Kumar and Lipshultz5 suggest that the therapeutic window for caffeine will need continued research to understand the favorable outcomes that may be achieved for premature infants. It is suggested that continuing caffeine past 35 weeks is a possible treatment plan that could have a significant clinical impact. Keywords: baby; caffeine; feeding; weeks
• Narrative Medicine and NIDCAP: What Can We Learn From Each Other? by Audeoud, Frédérique Berne (2023) - With the help of narrative medicine, we can improve the way we listen to parents using our close reading session skills. A I N E R S M E E T I N G 2 0 2 3 Aim To present the theoretical background of narrative medicine, highlight its specificities in the neonatal period, and show how NIDCAP is relevant at all stages of the narrative process. Keywords: baby; narrative
• My personal loss provoked me to fight by Noklova, Nina (2023) - We are strong and we have changed so much in Bulgaria including providing information about prematuri- ty and how to support babies and families in the NICU. Our foundation gives hope, and help to families, healthcare profes- sionals, and babies. Keywords: alexandra; babies; baby

• Rwanda by Manibaho, Patrick (2022) - NIDCAP in Rwanda To bring NIDCAP into Rwanda, Heidelise Als, PhD (National NIDCAP Training Center, Boston) collaborated with two experienced NIDCAP Trainers, Natalie Wetzel, RN (NIDCAP Germany, Training Center Tübingen) and Maria López Maestro, MD (Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre NIDCAP Training Center, Spain). 24 • 2022 • Developmental Observer Rwanda is one of the smallest countries in Africa, bordered by Uganda, Burundi, Tanzania and Democratic Republic of Congo. Keywords: developmental; health; nidcap; rwanda

• A Statement on State and Feeding Efficiency by Alberts, Jeffrey R. (2019) - The authors were able to make some assertions concern- ing the meaning of their findings for NICU practice: Careful assessment of infant behavioral state is vital for effective, devel- opmentally-supportive feeding. Thus, Griffith et al. examined The relationship between behavioral states and oral feeding efficiency in preterm infants. Keywords: feeding; state
• Reflections on Infant Feeding by McAlinden, Bronagh (2020) - Reflection of an oral feeding I observed a second baby, Max, during an oral feeding to con- trast difference in responses and behaviours between tube and oral feeding. I would like to share my experience with infant feeding in the following observation and reflections. Keywords: feeding; max; mia

• How to Move a Ventilated Baby From Bed/Incubator to Skin-to Skin In a Safe Way by Hoeeg, J. (2019) - With the development of the guidelines on how to safely move intubated infants into skin-to-skin positioning, the unit now has the opportunity to offer skin-to-skin holding to all children in the unit. To increase the opportunity for skin-to-skin contact for as many infants as possible, as early as possible, including those intubated. 2. Keywords: skin

• Breastfeeding-Related Pain, Sensory Over-Responsivity (Sor), And Exclusive Breastfeeding 6 Months After Birth: A Cohort Prospective Study by Freund-Azaria , A; Bart, O; Regev, R; Bar-Shalita , T (2023) - The incidence of SOR was significantly higher among NEBF mothers compared to EBF mothers (25.4% vs. 11.4%, respectively, p=.02). For the assessment of breastfeeding-re- lated pain, mothers completed the Visual Analogue Scale and the Short Form-McGill Pain Questionnaire at enrollment (T1), and at 6 weeks after birth (T2). Keywords: breastfeeding; pain
• Editorial - NFI Growth by Spence, Kaye (2023) - In addition, the impact of chronic sleep deprivation on behavioral development has been demonstrated. The stressors are sleep deprivation, pain, mother-child separation, and sensory dysstimulation. Keywords: pain; sleep; studies

• Development of Cortical Integration of Visual Stimuli in Very Preterm Infants by Zores, C.; Marchal, A.; Davy, M.; Pebayle, T.; Astruc, D.; Dufour, A.; Kuhn, P. (2019) - They are able to exhibit physiological and behav- ioural responses to ecological visual stimuli in the NICU from 28 weeks post-menstrual age (PMA).1,2 However, little is known about their cortical responses to light level changes and the de- velopment of this cortical integration until term post-menstrual age (PMA). Results/Findings A 100 lux stimulus triggered a significant increase in oxyhemo- globin (0.6 to 1.4 μmol/ L) in visual areas as early as 36 weeks PMA (p <0.01). Keywords: areas; pma; weeks

• Oxytocin Responsivity During Skin-to-skin Care and Diurnal Cortisol Predict Depression, Trauma and Bonding Scores at NICU Discharge in Parents of Preterm Infants by Bollen, B; Bernagie, C; Verhaeghe, J; Vanhole, C; Naulaers, G (2020) - Depressive symptoms (Edinburg Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)), acute trauma symptoms (Acute Stress Disorder Scale (ASDS)) and posttraumatic stress disorder (Impact of event Scale (IES) & Traumatic event scale (TES)), and parental stress (PSS-NICU) were measured, both in mothers and fathers. Acute stress scores and diurnal cortisol in postnatal week 2 predicted posttraumatic stress symptoms at discharge, both in fathers and mothers. Keywords: leuven; mothers; stress
• A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Hospital by Alberts, Jeffrey R (2020) - For example, the body of knowledge comprising mechanisms of pain and pleasure is large and detailed on the side of pain mechanisms, but knowledge about how pleasure works is sparse and incomplete. Epigenetic mechanisms mediating the long-term effects of maternal care on development. Keywords: epigenetics; knowledge; offspring; stress; way
• NIDCAP: A Psychoneuroendocrine Perspective by Goldstein Ferber, S; McAunulty, G; Klinge, G; Weller, A; Als, H (2022) - In addition, inadequate HPA stress regulation in preterm infants further compromises their HPT function through HPA-HPT cross-connectivity. Thus, ameliorative alterations of the epigenome are possible with balanced environmental inputs.4,5 Relevance to NIDCAP By affecting stress reactivity and the HPA, NIDCAP methods appear to affect the function of the hypothalamic axes, which show association and causality pathways with cognitive and self-regulation functions. Keywords: hpa; nidcap; regulation; stress

• From the Science Desk: Revealing Form and Function with Brain Imaging by Alberts, Jeffery; Ferradal, Silvina (2023) - We hope to contribute at least one more Developmental Observer column on brain imaging, next focus- ing on applications suitable for new- borns, including those born prema- turely, for these babies present special challenges – and invite extra benefits from the knowledge gained on seeing the processes of brain development in the context of NIDCAP practice. Clinically, brain imaging is used to recognize early conditions of damage or malformation to predict outcomes and, significantly, to identify when and where therapeutic interventions can be applied. Keywords: brain; function; imaging; mri

• Understanding Sleep States by Dyck, Noah; Tyebkhan, Juzer; Warren, Inga (2021) - Results/Findings 39 responses were received, (17 from NIDCAP Trainers and 17 from NIDCAP Professionals). Conversations with NIDCAP and APIB Professionals and Trainers revealed that sleep state recognition can continue to be challenging post-training. Keywords: movements; nidcap; sleep

• Challenges and Barriers Perceived by Professionals in the Implementation of the NIDCAP Training in a Middle Income Country by Charafeddine, L.; Kurdahi Badr, L.; Masri, S.; Abel Nour, G.; Saad, A. (2019) - 2 • 2019 • Developmental Observer Challenges and Barriers Perceived by Professionals in the Implementation of the NIDCAP Training in a Middle Income Country Charafeddine La, Kurdahi Badr Lb, Masri Sa, Abel Nour Gb, Saad Ab aDepartment of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, American University of Beirut, Lebanon bDepartment of Nursing Services, American University of Beirut, Lebanon Aims/Purpose The purpose of this study is to describe the experience and chal- lenges faced during NIDCAP training and implementation in a middle income country. What are the barriers and challenges perceived by profession- als during NIDCAP training and implementation? 2) Keywords: implementation; nidcap

• The APIB Examination in the NICU: Its Clinical Use: Presented Abstract by Juzer, Tybekhan (2022) - Clinical APIB led to changes in clinical care and use of NICU resources. APIB exams were done at different time points during infants’ NICU stays. Keywords: apib

• Is Medical Education Ready for Generation Z? Journal Club Presentation by Chabba, R; Tyebkhan, Juzer (2022) - Generation Z is known to have a shorter attention span compared to other generations, and expect material presented to them to be engaging. Citation: Eckleberry-Hunt J, Lick D, Hunt R. Is medical education ready for generation Z. J Grad Med Educ. Keywords: education; generation; study

• The Impact of The Parent-To-Parent Peer Support Program on the Disenfranchised Grief Severity of Mothers with Preterm Infants by Hasanpour, M; Zarezadeh, M; Rahimi , S; Kazemnejad , A (2024) - Conclusion The findings of the current research showed that parent-to-par- ent peer support intervention was an effective program to decrease grief severity in mothers with preterm infants. In addition, the results of the Mann-Whitney test indicated that before the intervention, there was no signifi- cant difference in the mean scores of grief between the control and intervention groups. Keywords: grief; intervention

• Skin-to-Skin Contact Activates Oxytocin Release and Correlates to Parent Engagement by Vittner, D.; Butler, S.; Smith, K.; Makris, N.; Samra, H.; McGrath, J. (2019) - There was a sig- nificant negative correlation between paternal oxytocin levels and paternal engagement (r= -0.43; p-value = 0.03) and a significant negative correlation between infant oxytocin levels and maternal engagement (r= -0.54; p-value = 0.004). Linear re- gression, adjusted for infant oxytocin and cortisol levels, showed that as paternal oxytocin levels increase there was a significant decrease in paternal engagement (β: -0.16; p-value = 0.03) and as paternal cortisol levels increased there was a significant de- crease in paternal engagement (β: -68.97; p-value = 0.05). Keywords: engagement; levels; oxytocin

• La importancia de hacer doble diligencia: The Importance of Doing Dual Diligence by Alberts, Jeffery; Maestro Lopez, Maria (2023) - Centrémonos ahora en “No dañar, en el lenguaje de la ética es la no maleficencia Hacer el bien en el lenguaje de la ética es beneficencia Keywords: aspiración; con; del; dolor; ght; las; los; para; que; una
• Práctica Avanzada de la Formación NIDCAP: Tesoros Escondidos Para Aprendices y Entrenadores : Spanish by Silberstein, Dalia (2025) - la reflexión y el diálogo, y es por ello que procuro incluirlas. Esa suerte de relato a través del tiempo acerca del bebé en interacción con su entorno, con su familia, y con los cuidadores profesionales, proporciona un contexto en el que examinar nuestro lenguaje y reconocernos en él. Keywords: aprendiz; bebé; cada; como; con; del; desde; esta; familia; formación; las; los; más; nidcap; nos; observaciones; para; por; que; sus; una

• Critical Thinking, Reflection, and Action Research as Cornerstones of NIDCAP Implementation by Hasanpour, M.; Kakavand, A. (2019) - Action research is methodologically flexible to the point that it encourages methodological triangulation/ pluralism approaches. An important characteristic of action research is the empowerment of others. Keywords: action; nidcap; reflection; thinking

• States And State Transitions – Dilemmas For Dialogue by Burhani, Hussein Adamjee ; El-Tawil, Adnan; Tyebkhan, Juzer M (2024) - Trainers were also asked if the infant moved into State 2AA, and how they explained States 1AA and 2AA to NIDCAP Professionals-in-Training. To gain a deeper understanding of, and to clarify uncertainties about infant state, a survey was sent to NIDCAP Trainers. Keywords: nidcap; state

• Advancement of Promoting Developmental Care in Belgium by Janssens, K.; Grevesse, L.; Clercx, A.; Claesen, M.; Haelterman, G. (2019) - NICUs apply more DC practices than level II units and the recruitment of NIDCAP® professionals resulted in more DC practices. The objectives of this project are: • To evaluate the impact of the educational contract on the implementation and evolution of DC practices • Keywords: practices

• The effect of the empathy enabling program on the nurses’ empathy and nurse-parent communication in the newborn intensive care unit by Hasanpour, M; Kazemnejad, A (2023) - Also, the authors recom- mend that empathetic communication skills should be included in formal and informal training programs for nurses and nursing students working in newborn intensive care units. This issue is very prominent in newborn intensive care units (NICUs) and doubles the impor- tance of empathetic communication between nurses and parents and promoting empathy skills in nurses working in NICUs. Keywords: communication; empathy; tehran

• Little Readers Read-A-Thon Winner - 2020 by Gisondi, Theresa (2021) - 10 • 2021 • Developmental Observer Little Readers Read-A-Thon Winner 2020 Theresa Gisondi BSN, RN, Assistant Nurse Manager, Special Care Nursery The Andrew Tesauro’s Special Care Nursery (SCN) at Abington-Jefferson Health in Pennsylvania, USA was thrilled to participate in the Little Readers Read-A-Thon in September of 2020. Little Readers Read-A-Thon: An initiative of the Australasian NIDCAP Training Centre and Life’s Little Treasurers Foundation Dates for 2021 are 6-17 September. Keywords: read; thon

• NIDCAP Francophones by Guillou, Aurelie; Lescure, Sandra (2025) - En France, il y a actuellement 20 unités de néonatologie (NICU) avec des certifiés NIDCAP dont certaines ont aussi des certifiés FINE. En bas de gauche à droite: Fredérique Berne-Audeoud, Pédiatre, Formatrice NIDCAP en formation, Grenoble; Jacques Sizun, Professeur Emérite Université Toulouse, directeur retraité du Centre de formation NIDCAP de Toulouse; Sandra Lescure, Pédiatre, Formatrice NIDCAP et directrice du Centre de formation NIDCAP de Toulouse; Céline Prout, Infirmière Puéricultrice, Formatrice NIDCAP, Centre de formation NIDCAP de Toulouse; Nathalie Ratynski, Pédiatre, Formatrice NIDCAP retraitée, Centre de formation NIDCAP de Toulouse; Delphine Druart, Infirmière Puéricultrice, Formatrice NIDCAP et APIB, Centre de formation NIDCAP de Bruxelles En haut de gauche à droite: Marie-Cécile Andro-Garçon, Pédiatre professionnelle NIDCAP, directrice du Centre de formation NIDCAP de Saint-Brieuc; Aurélie Guillou, Infirmière Puéricultrice, Formatrice NIDCAP, Centre de formation NIDCAP de Saint-Brieuc; Véronique Pierrat, Pédiatre professionnelle NIDCAP, chercheure INSERM équipe EPOPé-Inserm, Paris; Isabelle Glorieux, Pédiatre professionnelle NIDCAP, Toulouse; Sylvie Minguy, Infirmière Puéricultrice, Formatrice NIDCAP, Centre de formation NIDCAP de Brest; Peggy Laurant, Infirmière Puéricultrice, Formatrice NIDCAP, Centre de formation NIDCAP de Valenciennes; Juliette Barois, Pédiatre professionnelle NIDCAP, directrice du Centre de formation NIDCAP de Valenciennes; Inge Van Herreweghe, Pédiatre professionnelle NIDCAP, directrice du Centre de formation NIDCAP deBruxelles Keywords: des; formation; les; nidcap

• NIDCAP Implementation in Neonatal Units and Breast Milk Feeding at Discharge: the EPIPAGE-2 Cohort Study by Mitha, A; Kana , G; Marchand, L; Lescure, S; Pierrat, V (2025) - Investment of professionals and families in very preterm infants’ observation could be an effective strategy to support exclusive breast milk feeding at discharge in this vulnerable population. High NIDCAP implementation was associated with high- er proportions of exclusive - only breast- breast milk feeding at discharge: adjusted odds ratio 4.72 (95% CI 2.79-7.99). Keywords: breast; nidcap

• My NIDCAP Journey as an Interpreter by Doi, Michiko (2020) - Towards an End and Beyond In Japan, the training of NIDCAP trainers is underway and we are hoping to see the first Japanese NIDCAP trainers certi- fied within the year. My experience as an interpreter in the NIDCAP trainings in Japan has taught me this. Keywords: interpreter; japan; japanese; nidcap

• A Quality Improvement Project for Non-pharamacological Pain and Stress Management by Akyempou, AN; Hicks, B; Warren, Inga (2021) - The EVIN measures the quality of non-pharmacological pain management during caregiving or medical procedures. Non-pharmacological management of infant and young child procedural pain. Keywords: evin; management; project

• What Can I Say? Poet's Corner by Giesen, Julia (2021) - Today I tried something new To change my usual point of view From seeing through the baby’s eyes To focus on what I could surmise For tips and tricks I could relay To nurses to improve their day What could I glean from what I feel This little one tries to reveal What kind of help does he need How can I teach a nurse to read His cues and signs of hanging on Keeping it together, then moving on Slipping down, losing touch When all of it becomes too much When breathing pauses get drawn out And he has nothing left to shout That he really needs our help But has no energy to yelp How can we leave him at his best So he can breathe and get some rest Moving softly into sleep That is robust, healing and deep So that when he does awaken Energy is not from him taken To open his eyes and turn his head And look up out of his bed And meet the eyes he’s coming to know Will be there always to watch him grow —Julia Giesen “What Can I Say?” DOI: 10.14434/do.v14i1.31819 Hello again from Edmonton! Keywords: julia

• World NIDCAP Day 2022 by Degl, Jennifer (2022) - We sure know how to celebrate as can be seen by the multitude of events hosted by our members through- out the month of March in concert with our 3rd annual World NIDCAP Day. So many of our members celebrated World NIDCAP Day in their hospitals with activities, parties and some even made spe- cially designed NIDCAP themed cookies. Keywords: members; nidcap

• Valenciennes NIDCAP Training Center, France: Tant de chemin parcouru! by Guilliot, Juliettep.l; Laurant, Peggy (2025) - éloigné de la maternité, les salles de soin étaient de grands espaces ouverts entourés de baies vitrées, ne disposant que de peu de place pour les parents. Dans le cadre de sa formation de formatrice NIDCAP, deux infirmières de néonatologie de Valenciennes sont certifiées par Peggy. Keywords: dans; nidcap; service

Epilogue

For more detail, about this study carrel, see the computed home page. For more detail about study carrels in general, see the read me file.

Created: 2025-12-23