12: Additional Considerations

Broader family members (siblings, grandparents), Crisis management (hospital policies need to change, not just NICU policies), Families with Non-English Language Preference
(access to interpreters, use of mobile devices for translation)

Without adequate interpreter services, families that prefer language other than English do not have equitable access to information

Chapter 12 Key Points

Awareness

  • Family care extends beyond parents
  • Inclusivity strengthens outcomes and trust
  • Policies must reflect diverse realities

Assessment

  • Are siblings, grandparents, and extended families considered?
  • Are interpreter and translation supports available?
  • Do crisis policies protect family integrity?

Action

  • Develop inclusive family presence and support models
  • Provide interpreters and cultural liaisons
  • Adapt crisis plans to uphold family unity

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Authors

Luann Jones, DNP, RN, NE-BC, ANLC-N

Morgan Kowalski, BA

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© 2026 Family-Centered Care Taskforce. Family-Centered Care Taskforce. All rights reserved. This toolkit may be reproduced and distributed freely for educational and non-commercial purposes with attribution. Any use of this content must acknowledge the Family-Centered Care Taskforce as the source. No portion of this toolkit may be altered or used for commercial purposes without prior written permission. Custom illustrations created for this project are for FCC Taskforce toolkit use only and may not be altered or reused separately.

DISCLAIMER
Readers are advised to adapt the guidelines and resources based on their local facility’s level of care and patient populations served and are also advised not to rely solely on the guidelines presented here.