We have recently had some issues with parents on the unit complaining that the nurses will not let them hold their babies.
The RN has explained each time that the baby is too unstable, too small, temp unstable and in some cases has umbilical lines. In one case, we were told by nursing office that we HAD to take the baby out for the parents to hold. Alot of us felt that this was taking "family centered care" too far! We are in a critical care unit and I feel that we have an obligation to the patient, first and foremost to promote a safe environment. I really felt that management had no place over-riding our nursing judgement and especially not backing us with the parent. It did not look very professional in my opinion. Back to the original point... I would like to know what the policies are at different facilities about taking babies out with lines. We all know how touchy they are. Our policy has now changed saying that we CAN take them out. I feel like it goes against common sense. If a baby is that small and that sick, they should have as litle stimulation as possible to prevent bleeds, loss of temp, etc, etc.
I also am surprised that any parent would demand to hold their baby when they are clearly sick or small enough to be in our unit. As a parent, I want what is best for my child!
