A care-by-parent unit: its planning, implementation and patient satisfaction.

Influenced by a shortage of nurses, the high cost of hospitalization, and a belief that parents can give adequate care to certain hospitalized children, a care-by-parent unit (CBPU) was developed. Patient care is provided by parents. No nurses are on the unit; a unit coordinator is the only hospital personnel. A care-by-parent committee composed of representatives from several disciplines gives direction to the unit. Unit success has been measured by several criteria. Cost-per-patient day has been lowered, physicians have expressed satisfaction, and a survey of children and their parents indicates that both are highly supportive of the unit.