Mothers’ experiences of participation in infant care in the neonatal intensive care unit: A phenomenological study
Journal of Neonatal Nursing, cilt.32, sa.6, 2026 (Scopus)
- Yayın Türü: Makale / Tam Makale
- Cilt numarası: 32 Sayı: 6
- Basım Tarihi: 2026
- Doi Numarası: 10.1016/j.jnn.2026.102005
- Dergi Adı: Journal of Neonatal Nursing
- Derginin Tarandığı İndeksler: Scopus, CINAHL
- Anahtar Kelimeler: Experiences, Infant care, Mother, Neonatal intensive care unit, Participation
- Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet
Özet
Aim This study aimed to explore mothers’ lived experiences of participating in infant care in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), including the emotional, educational, interpersonal, environmental, and social factors that shaped their participation. Methods A qualitative phenomenological design was used. Data were collected through in-depth semi-structured interviews with 23 mothers and analyzed using Colaizzi's descriptive phenomenological method. Results The analysis revealed five interconnected themes reflecting mothers’ lived experiences: emotional vulnerability and maternal role reconstruction, progression toward active participation, development of caregiving confidence, relationships with healthcare professionals, and navigation of social support and personal coping. Conclusion The findings highlight mothers’ reported need for family-centered and empathetic healthcare practices that support maternal participation, provide emotional and educational support, and strengthen communication between mothers and healthcare professionals. Implicatios for practice Communication, education, environmental planning, and psychosocial support that address mothers’ reported needs may facilitate their active participation in infant care in the NICU and help them feel more confident, connected and involvement.