Date of Award

4-29-2024

Document Type

Restricted Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Nursing (MAN)

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Joyce P. Miller, DNP, RN

Second Advisor

Katherine Martin, Ph.D., CNM

Third Advisor

Allie Bodin, MPH, CPH

Abstract

Parents of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) babies experience a large amount of stress that negatively impacts their experience in the hospital and can lead to detrimental health outcomes. A lack of support for these parents can make combatting stress difficult and may cause caregiver burnout. The author previously worked as a Registered Nurse (RN) in a NICU at a large, level I adult and pediatric trauma center and safety net hospital in the Midwest and witnessed the stress of the NICU parents. Furthermore, a summer internship program working with unhoused and marginally housed individuals in Minneapolis inspired this project and helped the author craft the design for the project. Drawing upon the author’s experiences as well as Jean Watson’s theory of Human Caring, the author created a design for a nurse-led support group in this particular NICU for parents of babies with the goal of reducing parental stress. A project plan proposal and flyer outlining the specifics of the support group were developed. A project model was created to give a visual representation of the project design, with the theme of accompaniment being expressed through the model. The project’s success will be evaluated using a post survey to obtain feedback and insight. Future steps could include a needs assessment, implementation, a research study, and expansion into other settings, including both inpatient and outpatient units.

Identifier

SC 11.MAN.2024.Hess.R

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