Developmental Supportive Care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Professional Nursing Perspective

Abstract Neonatal intensive care units worldwide are increasingly adopting developmental supportive care (DSC) practices to enhance outcomes for high-risk neonates. While technological advancements have dramatically improved survival rates of extremely low birth weight infants, they have also introduced challenges related to neurodevelopmental outcomes and family bonding. DSC bridges the gap between clinical care and developmental needs, fostering a healing environment that simulates the intrauterine setting and supports optimal growth, development and family integration.