Summary
Aim: The aim of this paper is to report on the process and experiences of neonatal nurses and
parents who worked collaboratively in an appreciative inquiry (AI) project to enhance family
centred care (FCC) in the neonatal unit with a focus on the destiny phase.
Background: The concept of FCC is internationally recognised as an ideal way of caring for
hospitalised children however, research suggests health professionals experience difficulties
integrating FCC principles into daily practice. A fundamental principle of FCC is the need to
develop respectful partnerships between health professionals and parents of infants requiring
neonatal care. AI offers a positive, strength based, participatory approach that promotes organisational learning and positive organisational change. AI facilitates change from the ground up
and lends itself to building effective sustainable partnerships and collaborations.
Design: Qualitative interpretive approach.
Methods: Two focus groups (4 neonatal nurses in the first group and 2 neonatal nurses, 1 physiotherapist and 1 occupational therapist in the second) and four individual face-to-face interviews