9: Uninterrupted access for two parents to be present

while their infant is admitted to the NICU.

Uninterrupted parental presence is a scientifically validated necessity

Chapter 9 Key Points

Awareness

  • Both parents benefit from shared presence
  • Co-presence improves decision-making and support
  • Restrictions create inequity and distress

Assessment

  • Are both parents allowed at the bedside together?
  • Do policies vary by time, space, or staff comfort?
  • Are alternative supports available when limits exist?

Action

  • Adopt policies allowing two-parent access
  • Design flexible space and staffing solutions
  • Model inclusive, equitable family presence

Download This Chapter

Download the Full Toolkit Here

Authors

Mary Coughlin, MS, NNP-NCC-E

Molly Fraust-Wylie

COPYRIGHT INFORMATION

© 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.