The goal of this quasi-experimental study is to learn if integrating family in newborn care units as a key partner can improve the outcomes of preterm and low-birth-weight neonates. The main question\[s\] that the study aims to answer:
• Does the implementation of the FINC intervention impact the neonatal outcomes for preterm and low-birth weight neonates in NCUs in resource-limited settings of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia? Researchers will compare the Length of hospital stay among preterm and low-birth-weight neonates admitted to hospitals included in the intervention groups and compared to the neonates admitted to hospitals in the control group.
In the intervention groups, family of preterm and low-birth-weight neonates will be trained, mentored, and integrated into the care targeted to their neonates.
All neonates aged 0-28 days admitted to level-2 NCUs in the neonatal care unit, including Kangaroo Mother care ward or mothers' side ward, with conditions that require hospital stay at 48 hours; and
accompanied by at least one parent (preferably a mother) dedicated to spending up to 8 hours per day with the infant
Neonates with major congenital anomalies
Infants with no family member to accompany the infant, or who do not consent to spend up to 8 hours per day in the NCU
Families with confirmed physical and/or mental problems limiting their capability to communicate and to engage, or those who leave against medical advice
Laerdal Foundation
Lead sponsor
University of Stavanger
Sponsor institution
Mekelle University
Collaborator
Addis Ababa University
Collaborator