Newborn individualized developmental care and assessment program (NIDCAP)

Newborn individualized developmental care and assessment program, also known as NIDCAP, is an approach to intensive care that aims to make being at the hospital as supportive as possible for babies and their families.

NIDCAP is a philosophy used during interactions with a baby to observe and learn about how they're feeling so we can support and improve their care. This compassionate approach helps babies heal faster, go home sooner, and reflects our dedication to providing the best possible care for each child.

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What is the newborn individualized developmental care and assessment program (NIDCAP)?

NIDCAP is an evidence-based approach to caring for infants in the hospital. This approach helps interpret a baby’s communication into ways caregivers can provide support. It shapes the way each provider interacts with your child.

Our goal is to take the information your child is giving us and use it to create a personalized care plan for them. For instance, we may have a parent talk softly to the baby and hold their hand during a diaper change to help them relax. We want every interaction with your child to be as positive as possible to reduce stress and improve healing.

What are the benefits of the newborn individualized developmental care and assessment program (NIDCAP)?

Studies show the NIDCAP approach has many benefits for children in intensive care, such as:

Improved weight gain
Fewer days on supplemental nutrition
Fewer days of oxygen therapy
Fewer days in the ICU and hospital

The NIDCAP approach assists in helping parents learn how to understand what their baby is communicating so they can meet their baby’s needs.

What to expect with the newborn individualized developmental care and assessment program (NIDCAP)

Our NIDCAP trained providers will observe your baby as they receive care in the ICU. They’ll watch how your baby responds to experiences like diaper changes, feedings and lab draws. Based on what they see, they’ll work with you and the staff to make a supportive plan for your infant.

We encourage parents to be involved with care. Your child knows your voice, even from before birth, and finds it soothing and comforting. Even just talking to your child through interactions can help them feel more relaxed.

Our NIDCAP trained providers will collaborate with the nursing staff, respiratory therapists, physicians and other caregivers to implement individualized supportive measures for your baby through one-on-one training.

As we continue to listen to your child's responses and adjust their care, you may find your child seems more at ease in the hospital which promotes their recovery process. If you ever have concerns, we encourage you to ask one of your child’s caregivers for support.

What questions should I ask my provider about the newborn individualized developmental care and assessment program (NIDCAP)?

Will my child be seen by a NIDCAP trained provider?
How can I provide more compassionate care for my child?
How will my child’s care providers use the NIDCAP philosophy to care for them?
How can I advocate for my child?