The Impact of Neonatal Individualized Developmental Care andAssessment Program (NIDCAP) on Occupational Health andSafety in Neonatal Intensive Care Units

The Neonatal Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) has emerged as apioneering approach in neonatal care, aimed at improving outcomes for preterm infants. While its benefitsfor infant development are well-documented, the implications of NIDCAP for occupational health and safetyin Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) have received less attention. This review explores the impact ofNIDCAP implementation on the work practices, well-being, and safety of NICU staff.NIDCAP's emphasis on minimizing environmental stressors and individualizing care has led tosignificant changes in NICU environments and care practices. These changes have potential benefits forstaff, including reduced physical strain, improved ergonomics, and decreased noise exposure. Additionally,the program's focus on interdisciplinary collaboration and family involvement may enhance job satisfactionand emotional resilience among healthcare workers.However, the transition to NIDCAP is not without challenges. Initial implementation can introduce newstressors as staff adapt to new practices and mindsets. This review discusses these challenges and theirimplications for occupational stress and workload management.Furthermore, this paper examines how NIDCAP necessitates a reevaluation of occupational healthpolicies in NICUs, including training programs, ergonomic assessments, and stress management initiatives.It also identifies areas for future research, such as long-term occupational health outcomes, cost-benefitanalyses, and cultural adaptations of NIDCAP.In conclusion, while primarily focused on infant care, NIDCAP has significant potential to enhance theoccupational health and safety landscape in NICUs. By recognizing and leveraging these dual benefits,healthcare systems can work towards creating environments that optimize outcomes for both preterm infantsand the professionals who care for them.

کلیدواژه ها:

NIDCAP ، developmental care ، occupational health ، neonatal intensive care unit ، healthcareworker safety ، work practices