Maternal and paternal knowledge and perceptions regarding infant pain in the NICU

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate parents' knowledge, self-efficacy, and satisfaction about infant pain in the NICU. Design and sample: A survey was conducted, and 80 parents (57 mothers and 23 fathers) participated in the study. Main outcome variable: A researcher-developed questionnaire composed of 3 dimensions: parents' knowledge about infant pain, perception of self-efficacy regarding infant pain, and satisfaction with infant pain management. Results: Most parents had adequate knowledge and moderate to high self-efficacy and were satisfied with infant pain management in the NICU. Mothers and fathers responded differently regarding selfefficacy and satisfaction, and parents' perceptions were correlated with infants' correct age and parents' own age. Most important, most parents wanted to be present and to be given the opportunity to comfort their infant during and after a painful procedure. Parents also preferred to receive formal/ written information on infant pain.