Understanding the Parental Realities of Caring for Premature Newborns in Rwanda

Parents of premature newborns admitted to Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) commonly experience distress, emotional burden, and disruptions in parent-infant bonding. This study explored the lived experiences of parents whose premature newborns were admitted to the Neonatal Unit at the University Teaching Hospital of Butare (UTHB). A qualitative phenomenological approach was used to gain deep insight into parents’ perceptions, emotions, and challenges during hospitalization. Ten parents were purposively selected and interviewed through semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using Giorgi’s phenomenological method. Findings revealed both negative and positive experiences. Negative experiences included stress related to newborn appearance, fear of death, financial constraints, environmental challenges linked to noise, light, and equipment, and loss of parental role. Positive experiences emerged primarily from support provided by healthcare workers, partners, and family members. Understanding these experiences is essential for strengthening family-centered care, improving parental involvement, and enhancing neonatal outcomes. The study recommends structured psychosocial support, improved communication, and enhanced parental engagement in care routines.