Maternal Resilience in Caring for Preterm Babies at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Presbyterian Hospital, Dormaa-Ahenkro

Abstract

Mothers are at a high risk of acquiring psychological distress as a result of unexpected and upsetting experiences. While there is a strong emphasis on the infant's health, the mother's well being, particularly her mental health, is sometimes disregarded. This study explored the resilience of mothers in the care of their preterm newborns at the NICU. A qualitative exploratory descriptive design was used. The study applied a purposive sampling technique to select 15 postnatal women with their preterm babies on admission to the NICU at the Presbyterian Hospital, Dormaa Ahenkro. The findings of the study showed that maternal confidence helps in their resilience. Mothers had a purpose of having their preterm babies survive which contributed to their resilience. Mothers benefited from social support systems however, they encountered some psychological strains and some challenges in the care which they adapted to through spirituality, self-efficacy, drawing strength from the baby, and accepting the situation. Mothers should be supported psychologically, emotionally, financially, and physically to enable mothers to stay healthy during the care of the preterm infant in the NICU.