Zahedan University of Medical Sciences among the 30 reputable centers implementing NIDCAP approach in newborns care across the globe

According to the latest article published by the World Federation of NIDCAP (Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program), Zahedan University of Medical Sciences has been recognized as one of the 30 reputable centers providing specialized services to newborns worldwide.

Report from: Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, International Affairs Office

Published on: 25 March 2024

According to the latest article published by the International Federation of NIDCAP (Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program), Zahedan University of Medical Sciences has been recognized as one of the 30 reputable centers providing specialized services to newborns worldwide.

The Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP) aims to prevent the iatrogenic sequelae of intensive care and to maintain the intimate connection between parent and infant, one expression of which is Kangaroo Mother Care. Research demonstrates that NIDCAP improves brain development, functional competence, health, and life quality. It is cost effective, humane, and ethical, and promises to become the standard for all NICU care. (Curr Womens Health Rev. 2011 Aug; 7(3): 288–301. doi: 10.2174/157340411796355216)

According to public relation report, Dr. Habib Ghaznavi, the Chancellor of Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, said that the care of premature newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) of hospitals plays a crucial role in the proper development of these high-risk babies. He continued by saying that fortunately, with proper and responsible care provided by our colleagues in NICUs, there has been a significant improvement in the care of newborn babies in Zahedan University of Medical Sciences in the past two years. He mentioned that this achievement has not only gained the attention of the Iran’s Ministry of Health but also led to the recognition of ZAUMS as a successful model for babies care worldwide. As a result, the university's name has been included in the annual global poster of Newborn Individualized Developmental Care and Assessment Program (NIDCAP).

Dr. Mohammad Kazem Momeni, the Vice Chancellor for Treatment Affairs at ZAUMS, also stated that with the new measures and facilities dedicated to the field of neonatology, they have successfully achieved a 25% reduction in neonatal mortality in the past year, which is a proud record for the university.

He added that the allocation of 4 resident super-specialists for 24-hour coverage in NICU and a 39% increase in the number of specialized neonatal care beds are among the other measures that have led to a remarkable improvement in newborn-related care at this university. He also mentioned that all nurses in the neonatal units have completed supplementary training courses to enhance their skills.