Abstract
Objective Parents of preterm, very low birthweight (VLBW) infants in neonatal intensive care
units (NICU) undergo emotional turmoil. Studies on parent's experiences typically
focus on the maternal perspective. The purpose of the study is to explore the emotional
needs and experiences of fathers of VLBW neonates in the NICU and to identify ways
to improve their experiences.
Study Design This was a qualitative descriptive design study undertaken at the NICU of a tertiary
university hospital. Convenience sampling with predefined inclusion and exclusion
criteria was used to identify prospective participants. Semi-structured interviews
were conducted with 15 fathers of infants until data saturation was reached. The COREQ
(Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Studies) checklist was used.
Results Father's experiences were classified into the topics of concerns, roles, and perspectives.
Uncertainty was a predominant theme in each of these. Fathers assume multiple roles
toward the child, wife, self, and family. Their concerns were multifaceted involving
the child, family, work, and finances; they experienced a myriad of emotions, but
these evolved into resilience eventually.
Conclusion Fathers have unique concerns pertinent to having an infant in the NICU. They juggle
multiple roles and transition to emotions of resilience. It is imperative to acknowledge
the uncertainty and diverse roles of fathers, provide them with customized information,
and develop more balanced parent-support groups.
Key Points
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Fathers juggle multiple roles with a child in NICU.
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Uncertainty is a key part of their experience.
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Acknowledging their role and emotions is important.
Keywords
preterm infants - fathers - neonatal intensive care - emotions - concerns - perspective
