The effect of narrative writing on fathers� stress in neonatal intensive care settings

Abstract

Objective: This study was conducted to examine the effect of narrative writing on fathers� stress in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) during infants� hospitalization. Methods: A quasi-experimental study was conducted among two groups of fathers with preterm infants in the NICUs of two teaching hospitals of Gorgan University of Medical Sciences. Pre- and post-tests were administered to a sample size of 70 during 6 months. The Parental Stressor Scale (PSS) was used. The data were analyzed using descriptive and analytical statistical methods. Results: The mean total stress score was 74.05 ± 17.39 in the control and 80.11 ± 15.82 in the intervention group on the 3rd day, suggesting no significant difference. In other words, both groups had a similar stress level before the intervention (p-value =.13, t = 1.52). However, the mean total stress score was 85.45 ± 16.91 in the control group and 48.00 ± 10.49 in the intervention group on the 10th day, suggesting a significant reduction in the stress level in the intervention group following the intervention (p-value =.001, t = �11.01). Conclusion: According to the findings, the narrative writing may be considered as an efficient supportive intervention to reduce the fathers� stress in the NICUs. However, more research is needed to justify its implementation. © 2019 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group