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2025, Number 5

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Rev Mex Pediatr 2025; 92 (5)

Factors associated with the need for psychological intervention in families of newborns hospitalized in the NICU

Hernández-Salazar A, Romo-González CJ, Rendón-Macías ME, Gerardo-del HMN, Lozano-Guerrero G, Silva-Ramírez H

Language: Spanish
References: 21
Page: 180-186
PDF size: 372.76 Kb.


ABSTRACT

Introduction: the hospitalization of newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) generates high emotional vulnerability in parents. Identifying risk factors associated with the need for psychological intervention is essential to strengthen the early bond and support the newborn's development. Material and methods: a retrospective and cross-sectional study was conducted in a private hospital in Mexico City, involving 376 families with newborns hospitalized in the NICU. The need for psychological intervention was assessed using the Initial Psychological Assessment (EPI) tool. Statistical analysis: chi-square test, Student's t-test, and binary logistic regression. Results: 63.6% (n = 239) of the families required intervention. Risk factors identified included younger gestational age (OR 1.36); maternal sadness (OR 1.16) and stress (OR 1.26); lack of family support networks (OR 1.30); and multiple pregnancies (OR 18.3). The presence of siblings was a protective factor (OR 0.15). Conclusions: for parents, the NICU is an emotionally demanding environment where clinical and psychosocial factors interact. Early identification of at-risk families facilitates the implementation of psychological support strategies, which are essential for the well-being of both parents and the newborn.


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