A scoping review of mother–child separation in clinical paediatric settings

Abstract

There is increasing evidence to suggest that autonomic regulation of hospitalised infants is affected by separation from their mother. This review explored the extent of the evidence relating to the impact of separation on infants and children and aimed to identify suitable measures of the impact of mother–child separation. We conducted a scoping review of seven databases using the main search terms ‘physiological’, ‘psychological’, ‘infant/child’, ‘maternal separation’ and ‘hospital’. Thirty-four articles containing data relevant to the effects of mother–child separation on either member of the pair were included. Findings highlight the central importance of the mother’s presence in mediating the stressful effects of hospitalisation on her child. The majority of articles reported on psychological effects of separation on mothers of infants or on younger children. We identified no articles reporting on physiological effects on the older child or mothers of older children or psychological effects on mothers of older children. Only nine articles used validated tools to measure the effects of separation. There is a need for more evidence, based on validated measurement, about the psychological effects of separation on the child, particularly the older child, and on the physiological effects of separation on the mother–child pair during hospitalisation.

Outcomes of ondansetron use in children with gastroenteritis in the emergency department: a literature review

“…Eleven studies (Cheng 2011, Fedorowicz et al 2011, Colletti 2012, Levine 2012, Freedman et al 2013, Mullarky et al 2013, Schnadower et al 2014, Marzuillo et al 2016, McLaren et al 2016, Tomasik et al 2016 concluded that the use of ondansetron decreased hospital admission rates. Non-admission to hospital is likely to have psychological benefits for parents and children (Power et al 2020) and alleviate some of the cost/resource burden on the NHS (King's Fund 2012).…”

Evaluation of a complex couplet care intervention in a neonatal intensive care unit: A mixed methods study protocol

“…4 Separation of mother and infant interferes with establishing an early bond and limits the development of a secure relationship and attachment behaviors. 5 An article by Bergmann presented solid arguments for a 'zero separation paradigm' as separation is a source of toxic stress in the infant, defined as the absence of the buffering protection of adult support which affects the neuroendocrine system. 6 In another study by Bergmann et al introducing 'nuturescience' a converging message was that mother-infant dyads should not be separated as closeness and emotional connection have a profound potential for preventing and minimizing developmental problems in infants.…”

“…Even so, the first period of infant and maternal hospitalization is often characterized by infant‐parent separation which limits skin‐to‐skin contact (SSC) and emotional closeness 4 . Separation of mother and infant interferes with establishing an early bond and limits the development of a secure relationship and attachment behaviors 5 . An article by Bergmann presented solid arguments for a ‘zero separation paradigm’ as separation is a source of toxic stress in the infant, defined as the absence of the buffering protection of adult support which affects the neuroendocrine system 6 .…”

Maternal incarceration: Impact on parent–child relationships

“…All children need a trusting and secure maternal-child relationship, but this is critical for children of incarcerated mothers who need protection and support in the face of these added vulnerabilities (Harris, 2017). Yet, sound maternal-child relationships are extremely difficult or impossible to achieve when children experience longterm separated from their mother or main caregiver (Power et al 2020). Being forbidden regular access visits with their child can disrupt the maternal-child relationship and undermine a child's sense of security and trust (Bowlby, 1973).…”