Abstract
Objective To evaluate the feasibility of a mindfulness-based training session (MBTS) for parents
of neonates born at ≤32 weeks' gestation in a level 3 neonatal intensive care unit
(NICU).
Study Design Within 14 days of admission, parents completed the Parental Stressor Scale: Neonatal
Intensive Care Unit Questionnaire (PSS:NICU), Cognitive and Affective Mindfulness
Scale (CAMS-R), and a survey on stress management techniques. Parents then participated
in a MBTS with instruction in mindfulness-based practices and were asked to practice
the techniques during the NICU stay. At discharge, parents repeated the surveys to
evaluate their mindfulness-based practice experience.
Results Of the 98 parents approached, 51 consented to participate (52%). Of these, 28 completed
MBTS, initial, and discharge surveys. One parent had previously practiced mindfulness.
The majority of parents (79%) reported that mindfulness practice was helpful, and
71% stated that they would continue their practice after NICU discharge. There was
no difference in PSS:NICU or CAMS-R at discharge.
Conclusion An MBTS was feasible to provide to parents in our NICU. Parents practiced the mindfulness-based
techniques and reported benefit from their mindfulness-based practice. Future studies
are needed to evaluate if an MBTS is a valuable resource for NICU parents' coping.
Keywords
mindfulness - neonate - premature - stress
