The effect of family integrated care based on Swanson theory of caring on premature infants: A non-randomized cohort study

Preterm birth significantly impacts neonatal growth and development, and the family integrated care (FICare) nursing model offers several benefits. This study investigated the impact of FICare on preterm infants, based on Swanson caring theory. This theory includes 5 core processes (knowing, being with, doing for, enabling, and maintaining belief) that guide person-centered care. A non-randomized cohort study was conducted. A total of 52 preterm infants (28-36 weeks of gestation) were enrolled, 33 in the intervention group (FICare nursing model based on Swanson caring theory) and 19 in the control group (traditional care). The primary outcomes were the length, weight, and head circumference of preterm infants at corrected ages of 1, 3, and 6 months. Additionally, parental anxiety levels and the Parenting Sense of Competence scale were assessed. The intervention group demonstrated a shorter transitional feeding period (P = .015), a higher breastfeeding rate (P = .007), and a significantly lower rate of unplanned rehospitalization (P = .004). Infants in the intervention group had significantly greater body length (P = .041) and weight (P = .002) at corrected ages. Parental state and trait anxiety decreased, and Parenting Sense of Competence scores were increased (P < .001). No significant differences were observed in the duration of oxygen therapy, total enteral feeding period, length of hospital stay, or weight at discharge from hospital. FICare based on Swanson caring theory was associated with improved feeding transition, reduces unplanned readmissions, promotes growth within 6 months corrected age, alleviates parental anxiety, and enhances parenting competence. The findings are limited by the non-randomized design and baseline imbalance in birth weight.