[Parents' perceptions of their infants' hospitalization in a neonatal intensive care unit].
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the parents' perception of their infants hospitalization in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and suggest a more humane and individualized care in this highly stressful environment.


METHODS
We recorded and analyzed the interview of 20 young, low socioeconomic class couples having their first baby admitted to a NICU of a public hospital.


RESULTS
Fear, stress and doubts were frequent feelings among parents. Heath professionals were often too busy to explain in detail what was happening. When talking to parents, doctors and nurses usually used medical terminology which was poorly understood by parents.


CONCLUSIONS
The environment of a NICU is perceived by parents as being cold, impersonal and highly stressful. Listening to and understanding parents' needs is mandatory if one wants to provide a more humane and individualized care for high risk newborn infants and their families.
Lamy
Z C
ZC
Instituto Fernandes Figueira/FIOCRUZ.
Gomes
R
R
de Carvalho
M
M