Concerns of mothers of preterm low birth weight infants during the first week of the infants' discharge from hospital

Abstract

In this qualitative study the purpose was to explore and describe the concerns of mothers of preterm Low Birth Weight (LBW) infants during the first week following the infants' discharge from hospital. Concepts from role theory formed the conceptual framework for the study. -- Fourteen mothers of preterm LBW infants participated in the study. A structured diary and an audio-taped interview were used to collect data. Data were analyzed for themes and then categorized. -- The analysis of the data revealed that mothers' major concerns were related both to the infants and to themselves. Over half of the concerns raised were related to the infants; the most frequent were infants' health, feeding, growth and development, and elimination. Mothers' concerns about themselves focused on feeling tired, their emotional state, and schedules. Mothers also had concerns about their partners and their families. The findings suggested that taking on the role of mother of a preterm LBW infant was facilitated by clear role expectations, positive learning experiences, and support from partners, family, and health professionals. These factors may have helped reduce mothers' concerns and therefore, role strain.