Care transition of preterm infants: From maternity to home

Abstract

Objective: To synthesize evidence about maternal care for preterm infants at home and develop a framework that guides the transition of care of preterm infants from maternity to home. Methods: This is an integrative literature review that followed methodological recommendations to answer the question: "What is the scientifi c evidence about maternal care for preterm infants at home?". To select the articles, LILACS and BDENF were used via the VHL Portal, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL and Web of Science via the CAPES Journal Portal. Results: A visual synthesis of results was obtained through a framework. This synthesis facilitates knowledge translation and the applicability of nursing interventions during care transition from maternity to home, based on evidence. Analysis of these studies revealed three categories: Feelings of mothers during the care of preterm infants at home; Caring for preterm infants at home; Support network for caring for preterm infants at home. Conclusion: During the transition from maternity to home, families face a whirlwind of feelings that can be paradoxical. The joy due to hospital discharge can also emerge with anxiety and insecurity about the family's' new role. The framework on care transition of preterm infants from maternity to home presented in this study is relevant for facilitating the understanding of the health interventions' fi nding and its applicability to promote a safe transition for preterm infants.