Abstract: Objective To fully understand the practice of Family Integrated Care (FICare) in neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), to discuss the current challenges and suggestions of FICare, and to provide reference for expanding its practice. Methods From May to June 2021, a semi-structured telephone interview was conducted in 9 nursing managers of NICU in hospitals with FICare in 9 provinces and cities in China. Thematic framework method was used to analyze the data obtained. Results Three first-level and 9 second-level themes were extracted. Three first-level themes included practice focus: qualifications and cognition of medical staff, parents’ participation enthusiasm and comfort, project safety and practical effect; practice challenges: lack of practice and charging standards, limited facilities and human resources, differences in parental cognition and insufficient participation; and practice suggestions: standardizing service process and content, setting charging items and improving ward environment, forming a multidisciplinary team and setting up special positions. Conclusion There are many challenges for FICare in terms of policy, environment, and manpower, and there is still room for improvement. The implementation and practice norms should be accelerated and formulated with possible resources to promote the promotion of FICare.

Key words: neonatal, intensive care unit, family integrated care