Enhancing early bonding between mothers and preterm infants: findings from a Multicentre Qualitative Study of Nurses ^*

Objectives:

this study aims to explore neonatal nurses’ experiences of facilitating early bonding between mothers and premature babies

Method:

a descriptive qualitative approach was adopted, using focus group discussions with 13 participants from four referral hospitals in a major city in a developing country. This was followed by in-depth interviews with three participants

Results:

three main themes emerged, highlighting the barriers and facilitators to early bonding between mothers and preterm infants. The study also explored care practices aimed at facilitating early bonding within the social environment of preterm infants, involving mothers, families, nurses and hospitals.

Conclusions:

the barriers and facilitators identified inform the development of intervention strategies for neonatal nurses to promote early bonding. Optimal early bonding requires enhanced nurse management skills, adequate hospital infrastructure and involvement of the patient’s family. These findings contribute to the advancement of health and nursing knowledge.

Descriptors:
Family Relations; City Hospitals; Infant Welfare; Mothers; Mother-Child Relations; Neonatal Nurses

Highlights:

(1) Early bonding thrives with support from nurses, hospital and family alike.

(2) Prioritize stabilizing the mother’s condition before promoting mother-infant bonding.

(3) Neonatal nurses play a key role in promoting early mother-infant bonding.

(4) Comprehensive interventions should be adapted to the cultural norms of the hospital.

(5) Involvement of fathers can help nurses overcome various barriers to maternal care.