6533b829fe1ef96bd128a718

RESEARCH PRODUCT

"En ny hverdag" : mødres opplevelse av hverdagen med et prematurt barn, og støtten ved en forsterket helsestasjon

subject

description

Masteroppgave folkehelsevitenskap- Universitetet i Agder, 2014 Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore how a child health centre, with expertise in premature infants, can improve how mothers manage their daily life with a preterm child. Background: Premature infants has a higher risk for several health issues, which can be challenging for the parents. The transition between hospital and home is crucial, as the parents have to handle the full responsibility for their child, for the first time. In this period, the child health centre can be an important resource. Method: Semi structured interviews of nine mothers of preterm infants were conducted. The children took part in a follow-up program at a child health centre with expertise in premature infants. Data was analyzed using Kvales guidelines for text analysis. Findings: Two main themes were identified. First, parents needed to adjust their daily routines to the childs needs, which caused both challenges and joy. Secondly, the child health centre made the parents feel safe and taken care of, provided that the health professionals were well-experienced with premature infants. Conclusion: Parents of premature infants experiences great uncertainty and stress regarding discharge. Through availability, expert knowledge and practical experience with premature infants, the child health centre can contribute to improve mothers coping strategies. KEY WORDS: parents, premature infants, daily life, child health centre