Programs utilizing veteran parents to provide peer support to NICU families, regardless of whether support is provided in-person, by phone or Internet, should offer a comprehensive training program designed to equip parent mentors with the skills needed. Content of training may include: Defining the roles of a parent mentor: To actively and empathetically listen to and encourage NICU parents without trying to solve their problems or give them advice;19, 20, 40
To assist parents in identifying and utilizing their current support systems;
To offer emotional and informational support;
To encourage advocacy for their baby;
To empower parents to step into their parental role as an essential member of their NICU baby's care team; and
To identify when to ask for help and where help is available for parents that mentors are supporting.20
Defining expectations of a parent mentor: To maintain confidentiality: the manner in which each hospital handles the sharing of patient information should be communicated;
To treat all parents with respect, regardless of their cultural, racial and ethnic backgrounds, socioeconomic status and religion; and
To make a time commitment for the program.
Development of essential skill set: Basic communication and reflective listening skills;
Understanding the expected and normal emotional responses of NICU parents, and responses that indicate parents might be at risk for more serious mental health issues;
Understanding the dynamics of grief and loss;30 and
Knowledge of hospital and community resources.