The paternal feelings related to the hospitalization of the child in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Abstract

Objective: to understand the paternal feelings related to the hospitalization of the child in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Method: qualitative research, exploratorydescriptive, held in a University Hospital between August and November 2011, under the contribution of the Attachment Theory. Interviews were conducted with ten fathers and interpreted by collection, synthesis, theorizing and recontextualizing. Results: from the analysis, the categories: a) The impact of news; b) The entry into the Intensive Care Unit for the first time; c) The first direct contact with the child; d) Faith as a way of coping, e) Beyond the role of family provider. Conclusion: The exercise of parenthood may occur positively if the parent can exercise their spirituality and have the support of the team and the hospital, feeling worthy in relation to the child's care. The adjustments to the experience of this social role are being woven in accordance with such means.