AbstractThe admission and hospitalization of an ill neonate can be extremely difficult for parents. Parents (especially mothers) of pre term neonates admitted to neonatal intensive care unit are at a high risk for experiencing symptoms of depression more significantly than mothers of term neonates[1]. The admission process into the intensive care unit can be very stressful. The environment, technology, appearance of the neonate and the feeling of a loss of the parental role contributes greatly to the amount of anxiety and stress found among parents in the neonatal intensive care unit. Eichner et al,(2003) [2]. The very criteria for admission to a PICU are frightening and can realistically prompt fear that their child could die or become severely disabled. When combined with worry about ongoing procedures and medical treatment, parental distress is common and understandable[3]. Background of the study: During the experience in neonatal intensive care unit, the investigator came across many mothers who were anxious enquiring about their newborn. The investigator therefore, felt the need to conduct this study on a larger scale. She found that mothers with hospitalized neonate suffers from anxiety and severity depends on condition of the baby so anxiety not only affects psychologically but physically also [5]. So the investigator decided to explore the level of anxiety and according to the need prepare the guidelines for coping (Booklet) for mothers with hospitalized neonate. Nurses working in neonatal intensive care unit can help these mothers to cope with the situation[6].
Key words: Anxiety; Coping Level; Neonates; Neonatal Intensive Care Unit; Information Booklet.