Mapping the global implementation of parent-focused infant-centred and family-centred developmental care (IFCDC) principles: a scoping review protocol.

Abstract

Infant-centred and family-centred developmental care (IFCDC) within the frame of special intensive care prioritises a holistic approach to caring for infants by addressing their developmental and emotional needs. A key principle of IFCDC is the active involvement of parents in care, which promotes better long-term outcomes for both the infant and their caregivers. This scoping review aims to examine parental satisfaction and the challenges associated with their involvement in infant care by assessing the global implementation of the IFCDC principle of parental involvement in specialised intensive care settings. The scoping review will follow the methodological framework outlined by Khalil <i>et al</i> and the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. Literature from 2014 to 2025 will be searched for relevant papers across PubMed (MEDLINE). Two reviewers will independently screen titles, abstracts and full texts, with a third reviewer resolving conflicts. Key findings and results from eligible papers will be analysed and summarised in line with the scoping review's objectives. No ethical approval is needed. We intend to submit the paper for publication and thus to present the results in a peer-reviewed journal. This scoping review is registered at OSFREGISTRIES (https://osf.io/h94qr/?view_only=a08b30a5eb3a4a3d97aeda7c6d7e157d).