Stress, Individual Coping Mechanisms and Support Systems for Mothers of Babies With Neonatal Sepsis in Kenyatta National Hospital Neonatal Units.

Abstract

Background: Maternal health is a major health concern worldwide. Admission of a neonate causes significant stress among mothers who are the main caregivers due to uncertainty about the progress of their babies. Mothers employ varied coping mechanisms when in such situations. Very few mothers have good support systems in such cases and experience a lot of strain emotionally, socially and financially. Maternal health is paramount in the outcome of a sick neonate because a healthy mother will participate optimally in the caring for her child. For this reason, mothers ought to receive optimal support from family, friends, religious groups and the hospital at large. Objective: To determine the stress levels, related factors, individual coping mechanisms and support systems for mothers whose babies have neonatal sepsis in Kenyatta national hospital, neonatal units. Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive, quantitative study was conducted in Kenyatta National Hospital. Purposive sampling method was used to select the respondents. Data was collected for a period of three weeks among mothers in the neonatal units, using a semi-structured researcher-administered questionnaire and was analyzed using R version 4.1.2. Inferential statistics was done using Binary logistic regression tests. Results were presented using charts and graphs and tables. Qualitative data presented as per identified themes..........................................