Exploring The Lived Experiences of Mothers with Critically Conditioned Infants in The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)

This study explored the lived experiences of mothers with critically conditioned infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. It focused on their emotional responses, challenges, coping strategies, and support needs. The study further aimed to develop supportive measures to strengthen maternal well-being, coping capacity, and family-centered NICU care. A qualitative phenomenological research design was used. Ten mothers, aged 18 years and above, whose infants were admitted to the NICU for at least three days, were purposively selected. Data were collected using a validated structured interview guide and analyzed to identify meaningful themes in participants’ narratives. The findings revealed three major themes: living through emotional upheaval during NICU hospitalization, negotiating motherhood amid separation and uncertainty, and drawing strength from faith, relationships, and holistic support. Mothers experienced fear, sadness, helplessness, interrupted bonding, physical and financial burdens, but gained hope through quality care and family support. The study concluded that NICU hospitalization is a deeply emotional and transformative maternal experience. Mothers faced uncertainty, separation, and disrupted caregiving roles, yet remained resilient through faith, family relationships, and healthcare support. Compassionate communication and family-centered care were essential in strengthening maternal coping and emotional stability. Hospitals should provide emotional assessment, counseling referrals, clear communication, breastfeeding guidance, family involvement, spiritual support, peer support groups, and practical assistance to strengthen maternal well-being and family-centered NICU care.