Mothers’ perception of the communication process at the neonatal intensive care unit

Abstract

This study aimed to understand how mothers perceive their communication process with the nursing team during the hospitalization of newborns at the Neonatal Intensive Therapy Unit of a teaching hospital in the South of Brazil. Data were collected through semistructured interviews, held with seven mothers of infants hospitalized at this sector in 2007. Data analysis was qualitative. The mothers perceived that some nursing team members used the communication process inadequately; that the mechanization of care and the lack of Professional commitment influenced the communication process, in the understanding of messages as well as in interpersonal relationships and welcoming. The results revealed the need to prepare nursing professionals with regard to service to the family and the use of therapeutic communication, including teaching at undergraduate level and in-service education. Two essential aspects for care delivery to mothers at health care units should be highlighted: offering periodical courses to the nursing team about communication and family and inclusion of family and communication themes in professional education, with a view to preparing them for the challenging situations in family care.