Rev. Soc. Bras. Enferm. Ped.2019;19(1):7-15.
Maternal experiences during hospitalization of premature newborn
DOI: 10.31508/1676-3793201900002
Abstract
Objective
This work aims at understanding the maternal experiences during hospitalization of premature infants in the NICU (Neonatal Intense Care Unit).
Methods
This work was based on qualitative study, done from May to June 2014, with thirteen postpartum women and their premature infants hospitalized in Neonatal units of two public hospitals in Feira de Santana – Bahia. The data were collected through recorded interviews and submitted to analysis of content.
Results
The maternal experience was marked by intense suffering, expressed with feelings of fear and negative beliefs about prematurity and use of technology. This suffering was overcome when the mothers noticed the recovery of their children and could be closer to them, in addition, those mothers became more confident about the Neonatal unit enviroment.
Conclusion
It is important that healthcare workers take into consideration maternal and familial experiences in order to plan interventions that might reduce initial suffering and support postpartum women during hospitalization.