Feeding Problems of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit Graduates: Perceptions of Parents and Providers

Abstract

There is little known about family experiences with pediatric feeding problems after neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) discharge. The study purposes were to better understand the family experiences with and consequences of feeding problems among NICU and PICU graduates after they transitioned home. Using a qualitative, descriptive design, 15 parents and 10 health professionals completed in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Analysis revealed that feeding problems greatly impacted families. Education and resources were considered important but generally insufficient. Although some parent-provider partnerships were strong, many others were not, and at times, partnerships were fraught with conflict, communication problems, and lack of collaboration. System barriers and financial concerns escalated parents' distress, affecting their emotional responses. Parents' perceptions of discrepancies between their family situation and those of “normal” families violated their expectations. Understanding the perspectives of parents and providers regarding feeding problems common among NICU and PICU graduates is essential to developing effective interventions.