Mothers' experiences regarding prolonged hospitalization of their preterm babies in neonatal intensive care unit in Princess Marina Hospital

Abstract

Background: Hospitalization of preterm babies in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) exposes mothers to critical care environment for as much period as it is determined by the condition of their babies. The purpose of the study is to explore the experiences of mothers about prolonged hospitalization of their babies in NICU in Princess Marina Hospital. Methods: The study will utilize a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design. A semi-structured interview guide will be used as a data collection instrument. Purposive sampling will be used to select mothers of preterm babies whose babies were hospitalized for more than 30 days but not exceeding 60. The demographic data will be analyzed using descriptive statistics while content analysis will be used for the qualitative data. Plan for dissemination of results: Information from the study will be disseminated to relevant stakeholders through briefs, conference presentations and publication in relevant journals.