Being in the neonatal ICU: perceptions of the parents about the experience of hospitalization and psychological care received in the unit

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the perception of parents (mother and father) of premature babies admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit about the hospitalization and psychological assistance received in the unit. The sample consisted of 12 parents, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, and analyzed through the content analysis technique. The data collection period comprised the months of January to May 2021. While the suffering that marks hospitalization of the baby was evidenced through reports of fear and anguish, especially in the initial moments of hospitalization, were also described feelings of relief and happiness emerged from the awareness that the patient was receiving the necessary care available in the unit. The clinical improvement of the patient and the positive perception about the care offered by the health team contributed to the emotional stability of the parents during the hospitalization. The psychological assistance received was described as a promoter of support and reception and proved relevant in helping to cope with the situation experienced.