Preparing for post-discharge care of premature infants: Experiences of parents

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: The study sought to describe the experiences of parents of premature children regarding discharge from the neonatal unit. METHODS: This was a qualitative study, in which 10 semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents of premature infants upon discharge from the neonatal unit. Data were analyzed following principles of grounded theory; open and axial coding was performed. RESULTS: The following categories emerged from the analysis of the information: feelings experienced upon discharge, and experience of the discharge as a process; the latter category clearly identified barriers and facilitators. The results highlight that the parents experience ambivalent feelings; joy is mixed with the fear of caring for a premature child at home. CONCLUSIONS: For parents, discharge of premature children from the neonatal unit is a complex process during which conflicting feelings are experienced. Nursing must develop strategies to involve parents early in the care of their children during the hospital stay.