Premature Babies Delivered by Assisted Reproductive Technology and Their Family Care Experience

Currently, the majority of couples who choose assisted reproductive technology (ART) have waited for and experienced the disappointment of natural conception. With the assistance of ART, they are finally able to “carry a baby to term.” This is wonderful for first-time parents. This case report involves a woman who delivered a premature baby weighing 1,520 g at 30+5 weeks using ART and her family care experience. During the period of care from October 23, 2016 to December 9, 2016, data were collected on this case through systemic assessment, clinical observation, and parental interview. Problems including gas exchange disorder, caregiver role tension, and the potential risk of parent-child attachment disorder were identified. In addition to providing appropriate medical care to maintain stable vital signs, we hoped to reduce the occurrence of comorbidities through a complete nursing assessment and comprehensive developmental care. We also attempted to build trust and to reduce parental anxiety and stress by providing relevant medical information and psychological support through active and proactive nursing care. The performance of “kangaroo care” with stable vital signs enhances parent-child attachment and a sense of involvement in the ongoing care of the infant. This strengthens the mother’s motivation and self-confidence in her caregiving role, enhances her sense of accomplishment as a mother, and promotes the growth and development of the infant after returning home. The weight of the infant reached 2,430 g before discharge. Before discharge, the mother was able to cite at least two caregiving skills and her eyes were no longer red from sobbing. We hoped that the parent-child attachment was well developed and that “kangaroo care” will assist the mother to face the future with a positive attitude after returning home. This article can be used as reference for nursing practitioners to improve the quality of care for premature babies.