Mother-Newborn Couplet Care in Denmark: A National Cross-Sectional Survey of Clinical Practices and Challenges.

Abstract

Aim: Although evidence supporting mother-newborn couplet care continues to grow, its clinical integration remains inconsistent due to ongoing barriers. This study aimed to describe current practices of mother-newborn couplet care in Danish obstetric and neonatal departments.

Methods: A national cross-sectional survey was conducted in all Danish neonatal and obstetric departments. An online questionnaire identified organisational structures, collaboration between departments, and interprofessional education. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while qualitative responses were evaluated using content analysis.

Results: The response rate was 91% (n = 31/34). Maternal treatment and care provided in neonatal departments were reported as "always" by 33% of respondents, "often" by 44%, and "sometimes" by 17%. Neonatal treatment and care provided in obstetric departments were reported as "always" by 22% of respondents, "often" by 33%, and "sometimes" by 28%. The clinical integration of couplet care depended on the level of medical needs for both. Key barriers included organisational and structural challenges and a lack of formalised interprofessional education.

Conclusion: The findings highlight the current situation of reducing mother-newborn separation through couplet care. Most Danish departments report that mothers and newborns can often be cared for together. However, organisational and structural barriers still prevent the integration of mother-newborn couplet care.