Abstract
The incidence of premature births is on the increase in the world. Currently there are approximately 15 million babies which are born prematurely in the world. 60% of these births are in Africa and South-Asia. There is a higher incidence of premature births in lower income countries. Factors associated with the higher incidence of the birth of pre-term babies are: The incidence of acquired immune deficiency disorder, fertility treatment, maternal diabetes, hypertension, maternal age and an increase in caesarean sections before term. However more and smaller pre-term babies are surviving their premature birth.
The premature birth of a baby presents several challenges to the parents of the premature baby. Premature babies, depending on how pre-term they are born, are cared for in intensive care units. Intensive care units are primarily focused on the physical well-being of the premature baby although some units make use of kangaroo care as part of the treatment plan. The highly technological environment of the intensive care unit is disruptive in terms of the bonding between parents and their premature babies.
Little research has been done on how the experiences of parents of premature babies can be used to promote their mental health. The question can be asked: What are the experiences of parents with premature babies in the intensive care unit and how can the parents be supported to promote their mental health?
A theory generative, qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and contextual research design was used to do this research study. Fieldwork was done by phenomenological interviewing with parents of premature babies in an intensive care unit. The findings were analysed and categorised and then contextualised when a literature control was done. Findings were validated in this way.
Results obtained showed that parents of premature babies in an intensive care unit experience strong thoughts and emotions. They also experience hope for themselves and their premature babies...
D.Cur. (Psychiatric Nursing)