SUPPORT NETWORK FOR MOTHERS OF PREMATURE NEWBORNS HOSPITALIZED IN A NEONATAL INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the support network of mothers of newborns hospitalized in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Materials and Methods: Mixed methods study, oriented to the symbolic interactionism framework,
carried out through an interview and the application of a scale to assess the level of social support received. The
study included 11 mothers of premature newborns hospitalized in a neonatal intensive care unit. The data were subjected to a thematic content analysis. Results: The analysis resulted in three thematic categories: the need for supporting mothers of babies hospitalized in an intensive care unit; the support network for mothers of babies hospitalized in an intensive care unit; hospital discharge and the demand for help in caring for the newborn –the mother’s perspective. Conclusions: The support network of the participating mothers consists of the family, other mothers experiencing the same process, professionals, and religious institutions. The necessary support should include information, attention, and emotional support