Improving Parents' Emotional Well-Being in NICU: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background: Parents in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) face stress, anxiety and isolation, which affect their mental health and involvement in the care of their infants. Aim: To analyse, summarise and compare the most recent scientific evidence on interventions in NICU aimed at parents in order to improve their emotional state. Study Design: A scoping review was conducted using the Arksey and O'Malley methodology and the PRISMA-ScR list. Methodological quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) for Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs), cohort and qualitative studies and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) for quasi-experimental studies. PubMed, CINAHL Plus and Scopus (2022–2024) were searched for studies according to predefined criteria. Results: A total of 27 studies were selected, the majority of which were RCTs, quasi-experimental and qualitative. It was shown that low-complexity family-centred interventions, alternative therapies and communication and training strategies for parents are effective in improving emotional health and family well-being, increasing parental self-efficacy, strengthening family cohesion and facilitating adaptation to NICU. Conclusions: During hospitalisation in NICU, it is essential to address the emotional health of the family. It is key to apply individualised interventions that integrate psychological support, care education and effective communication. Involving all family members strengthens their emotional well-being and improves their ability to cope. Relevance to Clinical Practice: Interventions to improve neonatal health are highlighted, focusing on humanised care, family involvement and communication. Nursing, with its holistic approach, is key, so managers should promote strategies that strengthen the emotional health of families and the quality of care in the NICU.