Maternal experiences of preterm birth and neonatal intensive care

This study investigates the experiences of mothers of pretenn infants undergoing intensive care in 3 local NHS Trusts, utilising a pre-existing questionnaire (PSS; NTCU, Miles et aL, 1993) and a semi-structured interview based on some of the theories associated with stress, coping and adaptation to preterm birth. The investigation was conducted prospectively in the early newborn period. Forty mother and infant pairs were included in the main study, and infants were excluded if they were critically ill. Findings indicate that mothers are distressed by many factors associated with the birth and admission, particularly issues concerning their relationship with the infant and separation worries. Interview data revealed others sources of stress not examined by the questionnaire, and further scale development is suggested. Adaptation to preterm birth appears to be similar to the 'psychology of victimisation' in that efforts towards cognitive adaptation (Taylor, 1983) are evident. New models of psycho-emotional su,pport for mothers in NICU are suggested based on some of the findings in this and other studies.

Name dc:type.qualificationname

msc

Level dc:type.qualificationlevel

masters

Grantor dc:publisher.institution

University of Central Lancashire

Year dc:date.issued

1999

Author dc:creator

• Reid, Thelma Linda

• B720 - Midwifery

Language dc:language

en