An accidental injury of a newborn in the care of family members soon after a hospital birth can cause emotional stress and guilt. The challenge for hospitals is to support bonding of newborns with their families by encouraging breastfeeding, cuddling, holding, and touching while ensuring newborn safety. Analysis of reports submitted to the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority from July 2004 to 2013 showed there were almost 300 newborn events reported to the Authority, including family members dropping their newborns after falling asleep, newborns slipping out of family members' arms to the floor, and newborns receiving bumps to their heads while being cared for by their families. More than 9% of the events contributed to serious patient harm. Literature shows that healthcare facilities can make a difference in newborn events by incorporating prevention methods such as family awareness, staff monitoring, and education for both staff and families.
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