Severity of post-traumatic stress symptoms, level of experienced stress and coping strategies in mothers of children previously treated in the neonatal intensive care unit

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the study was to develop a model of the relationship between the severity of post-traumatic stress symptoms, levels of experienced stress and coping strategies in mothers of children previously treated in neonatal intensive care units.

Methods: Anonymous questionnaire survey covered 62 mothers of infants aged from three to 12 months who had previously been hospitalized in neonatal intensive care units. Respondents completed a questionnaire comprising standardized tools such as the Impact Event Scale - Revised (IES-R), COPE Inventory and Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10).

Results: The severity of PTSD symptoms is explained by the model comprising four variables: three stress coping strategies (focus on and venting of emotions, denial and mental disengagement) and perceived stress. The model explains nearly 40% of post-traumatic stress symptoms. Perceived stress partly affects PTSD through one stress coping strategy - denial, which also has the effect on post-traumatic stress symptoms severity regardless of perceived stress.

Conclusions: Focus on and venting of emotions, denial, mental disengagement, and the level of perceived stress are potentially modifiable factors that are strongly associated with PTSD. Planning, realization and assessment of interventions aimed at reduction of maladaptive coping strategies and perceived stress are recommended for mothers of infants requiring treatment in neonatal intensive care units. In order to minimize distress and improve coping with the treatment of the child, it is necessary to evaluate the effects of various methods of supporting parents.

Keywords: distress; intensive care; post-traumatic stress disorder.