Perceptions of environmental stressors in the neonatal unit.
The purpose of this study was to explore maternal and infant stress within the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) environment and to assess the perceptions of neonatal nurses in relation to these stressors. Using both qualitative and quantitative methods, 12 mothers and 12 nurses were interviewed. Within the framework of the Roy Adaptation Model, the interview schedules were structured to include an 18-item stress scale. Results reflected a lower maternal stress level than was perceived by nurses, with mothers of very low birthweight babies reporting higher stress levels than mothers of low birthweight babies. Nurses' perceptions of the elements of the environment that caused most maternal stress differed from those reported by mothers. The highest reported stressor in the maternal group was the heat intensity; however, the nursing sample perceived the highest maternal stressor to be the monitors attached to the baby. This study highlights the need for increased awareness of stress in both the technological and psychosocial environment of the NICU. The promotion of individualized developmental care is also emphasized, with the aim of modifying and controlling environmental stress for both the mother and the neonate.
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Neonatal Unit, Simpson Memorial Maternity Pavilion, Edinburgh.
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D006272:Health Facility Environment / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007363:Intensive Care Units, Neonatal / Q000592:standards*; D009035:Mothers / Q000523:psychology*; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D009741:Nursing Staff, Hospital / Q000523:psychology*; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000523:psychology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires