Maternal Feelings and Perceptions Regarding the Hospitalization of Preterm and Full-Term Babies: a comparative study

Abstract

Mothers who experience their children's hospitalization after delivery report negative feelings and need care practices that promote dyadic attachment and recovery of maternal and child health. This study aimed to describe and compare the perception of mothers of preterm and full-term babies regarding the feelings experienced during the baby's hospitalization and in view of the expectation of their discharge. Sixty mothers participated in the study, 30 of babies born preterm (G1) and 30 of full-term babies (G2), both hospitalized after delivery. The mothers answered a semi-structured interview, with sociodemographic data and gestational history, and the Protocol for the Assessment of Feelings and Maternal Perceptions. G1 mothers reported expectation of longer hospital stay (p = 0.02), greater confidence in the hospital team (p = 0.05) and less need for specialized service after discharge (p = 0.04). For G2, there was a higher frequency of negative feelings in the face of the news of the hospitalization and positive feelings regarding the expectation of discharge; greater severity regarding their children's health status (p = 0.03) and more negative paternal reactions to the news of the hospitalization (p = 0.00).  Data indicated that mothers from both groups need professional care and a support network.