Abstract
Aim: To gain insight into the post-discharge experiences of parents in relation to the adequacy of preparation for caring for their extremely premature infant at home.
Method: A narrative approach was drawn on to facilitate data collection, via face-to-face semi-structured interviews, with fourteen parents of extremely premature infants.
Findings: Constant comparative analysis was employed to allow the emergence of five key research themes: Emotional and mental health of parents; uncertain outcomes; on-going health needs of the baby; education needs of health professionals; parental support and preparation for transition home.
Conclusion: Parental experience of being discharged home with a premature baby can be emotionally challenging necessitating a range of support mechanisms to assist them to cope with this period of transition.
Method: A narrative approach was drawn on to facilitate data collection, via face-to-face semi-structured interviews, with fourteen parents of extremely premature infants.
Findings: Constant comparative analysis was employed to allow the emergence of five key research themes: Emotional and mental health of parents; uncertain outcomes; on-going health needs of the baby; education needs of health professionals; parental support and preparation for transition home.
Conclusion: Parental experience of being discharged home with a premature baby can be emotionally challenging necessitating a range of support mechanisms to assist them to cope with this period of transition.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages | 22-27 |
| Volume | 30 |
| No. | 4 |
| Specialist publication | Nursing Children & Young People |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 11 Jul 2018 |