Exploration of the Care Giving Dynamic Between NICU Nurses and Mothers with a Substance-Exposed Pregnancy

Abstract

PurposeTo explore the caregiving dynamic between NICU nurses and mothers with a substance-exposed pregnancy (SEP) by examining how nurses view these mothers compared to mothers without an SEP.DesignA qualitative design using interviews with NICU nurses who care for infants and families with an SEP.SampleThe sample (n = 9) was all female, with an average of approximately 10 years of nursing experience in the NICU, with two-thirds having achieved a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or higher.Main outcome variablePerceptions of nurses working with families affected by an SEP.ResultsStigmatized views and trust issues shaped nurses' views of mothers with an SEP as different from other mothers. Empathy levels toward mothers differed related to nurses' views of substance use as either a moral decision or chronic disease. These viewpoints shaped the nurse's judgment of the mother's potential to provide a safe environment and independently care for the infant at home. Nurses described personal distress when caring for these families.