The value of a family-centered approach in the NICU and PICU: one family's perspective.

A family-centered approach in the NICU and PICU can make a tremendous difference to parents, providing the basis for systematic support. One family's story of a high-risk twin pregnancy, long hospitalizations, and ultimately the deaths of both daughters illustrates the kind of support system that families need. Positive examples from their experiences show the value of a family-centered approach, while negative examples show how difficult the intensive care environment can be for parents when family-centered care is missing. Parents and staff working together in partnership can improve the intensive care experience for all involved.