Maternal Experiences of Caring for Preterm Infants at Home After Hospital Discharge: A Qualitative Descriptive Study

Abstract

Caring for preterm infants at home following hospital discharge presents distinct challenges for mothers. Existing research provides limited insight into how mothers provide care for their preterm infants in the home setting post-discharge. This qualitative descriptive study explored maternal experiences in preterm infant care after discharge from a tertiary care hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. Using purposive sampling, eight mothers of preterm infants discharged within the past month were recruited. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to capture their experiences, and thematic analysis was used to uncover recurring patterns and insights. The findings revealed three overarching themes: maternal fulfillment with infants’ growth, receiving support to strengthen maternal role, and challenges in accessing primary health care after discharge. Mothers expressed a sense of fulfillment through their role in fostering their infants’ growth and development, which was reinforced by observing milestones such as weight gain and improved feeding. During this period, mothers encountered numerous challenges, including managing their infants’ health concerns and balancing multiple responsibilities; support from healthcare professionals, family members, and peers proved pivotal in equipping them with the necessary skills and confidence for caregiving. Additionally, barriers to accessing primary healthcare, including distance obstacles and the limited availability of specialized preterm care, were identified. These results underscore the importance of nursing interventions that address caregiving mothers’ emotional and practical needs. Nurses could play a critical role in discharge planning by providing tailored preterm infant care education, facilitating family involvement, and ensuring continuity of care through follow-up services.