Neonatal Transition Model: Supporting a Smooth Home Transfer

The neonatal nursing model of transition outlined in 2004 by Julia Capelman of the University of Salford has several clear goals to help the neonate do well once he leaves the neonatal intensive care unit and is able to transition to its family home. The two main strands of the model are "Working with Mothers" and "Working with Others," and the Working with Mothers section has four main subcategories.

Baby Well

• The goal is for the child to be well enough to leave the NICU and be able to go home to her new family.

Mum Happy

• Mothers of newborns with special health issues face even more challenges than a first-time mother and need to be supported by professionals and "Others" -- the father and anyone else who will be in a caregiving role for the newborn.

Keeping in Touch

• Effective communication during the transition period is one of the best ways to be sure that the child stays well and the mother and other caregivers are not overwhelmed by any long-term medical concerns.

One of the Family

• The transition into the household may be difficult depending on whether there are any ongoing health issues. The goal is for the newborn to live as normal a life as possible in its new family.