A framework synthesis reviewing the impact of neonatal care unit admission on early caregiver–infant relationships

Abstract

Aims To critically review and synthesize qualitative research pertaining to the establishment of early caregiver–infant relationships in the neonatal care unit (NCU). Background It is well‐established that bonding and attachment, established across the prenatal and early childhood periods, affect child cognitive and behavioural development. Proximity, reciprocity, and commitment are key to the formation of these early relationships. It is intuitively likely that an admission to the NCU may affect early reciprocal caregiver–infant relationships. Design A qualitative best‐fit framework synthesis. Data sources A systematic search of four databases (PsycINFO, MEDLINE, British Nursing Index and CINAHL) was conducted, from January 2000–December 2018. Review Methods The RATS quality appraisal tool was used to evaluate study quality. To ensure reliability, 20% of studies were randomly selected for independent rating. A “best‐fit” synthesis approach using an existing framework of early parent–infant attachment and bonding was adopted to synthesize the review findings. Findings Twenty studies, from an original 3,526 unique articles, were included in the review. Studies varied in the extent to which they demonstrated transparency of procedures and in the quality of recruitment information provided. The meta‐synthesis demonstrated that proximity, reciprocity, and commitment were affected by admission to a NCU and identified that parental reflections on bonding and the role of staff in this process, were important factors to consider. Conclusions Caregiver–infant relationships are affected by admission to the NCU. The review theoretically supports moves to Family Integrated Care. Units should evaluate caregiver emotional state and consider the role of peer support. Impact The synthesis revealed that areas typically implicated in the formation of attachment and bonds were affected by admission to a NCU. Results have implications on the clinical care delivered as part of neonatal care.