Abstract
ABSTRACT The physical environment impacts preterm infants’ brain development and is vital for neuroprotective family-centred care. In Spain, neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) are being renovated, but an overall assessment is lacking. This study describes the physical environment of high-complexity NICUs (level IIIC) in the Spanish National Healthcare System through a descriptive, cross-sectional, multi-centre study using an online survey. Data were collected in 2023 with a 100% response rate (n = 11). Results show that only 8 units (73%) were partially renovated. Most NICUs (73%) were in mother and children hospitals, and only 2 units (18%) shared a floor with the maternity ward. All NICUs had open-bay rooms, and 3 (27%) had single-family rooms for intensive care. Compared to Nordic countries and the USA, Spanish NICUs’ design seems outdated. An optimal room mix should consider the latest evidence as well as the local context, including culture, healthcare system, and staffing models.
Published Version
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