Explaining the Religious Strategies of Parents and Nurses of Infants Admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Paying attention to religious beliefs is not a new approach but has attracted the attention of various scientists for many years, both to analyze the reasons for turning to religion and in the direction and manner of its impact on behavior. The more people pay attention to strengthening their beliefs, religious beliefs, and religious behaviors, the better they can protect themselves from psychological harm. Therefore, this study aims to explain the religious strategies of parents of infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Methods: This qualitative study was conducted in 2020. The statistical population included parents and nurses. The research sample was selected by purposeful sampling, including 16 mothers, 6 fathers, and 6 nurses. Data were collected via in-depth quasi-structured interviews. Data analysis was performed by conventional qualitative content analysis. Results: Data analysis was obtained in three categories, search for hope and trust in God (2 categories), neglect of the health team to the spiritual needs of parents (2 categories), spirituality, and coping with illness (2 categories). Conclusion: The results of this research can be useful at both theoretical and practical levels. The present study helps to improve healthcare team knowledge about parents’ religious strategies in the NICU. Educational interventions should be performed to familiarize nurses with the correct communication with parents’ religious beliefs.

Keywords

• parents
• religion
• intensive care units
• neonatal
• nurses