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Indian Journal of Pediatrics

Published in:

01-05-2013 | Original Article

NICU Admissions and Maternal Stress Levels

Authors: Nitish Chourasia, Pushkala Surianarayanan, B. Adhisivam, B. Vishnu Bhat

Published in: Indian Journal of Pediatrics | Issue 5/2013

Abstract

Objective

To determine the stress levels among mothers of babies admitted in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and to identify demographic parameters that influence their stress levels.

Methods

Stress levels were assessed using Parental Stressor Scale: Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (PSS: NICU) questionnaire among 100 NICU mothers by doctors between 6 and 8 d of admission. Maternal stress was quantified using Likert scale as low (1–2.9), medium (3–3.9) and high (4–5). The data was analyzed using SPSS Ver.16.

Results

The mean scores for the subscales sights and sounds, looks and behaviour and alteration in the parental role were 2.55, 4.1 and 4.12 respectively. Increased maternal age, prematurity of baby, longer NICU stay and inability to directly breastfeed the baby were associated with higher stress levels.

Conclusions

NICU mothers are under significant stress and appropriate counseling targeted towards specific stressors is required.

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Title: NICU Admissions and Maternal Stress Levels
Authors: Nitish Chourasia
Pushkala Surianarayanan
B. Adhisivam
B. Vishnu Bhat
Publication date: 01-05-2013
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Indian Journal of Pediatrics / Issue 5/2013
Print ISSN: 0019-5456
Electronic ISSN: 0973-7693
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12098-012-0921-7

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

NICU Admissions and Maternal Stress Levels

Abstract

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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