Effect of Self-Efficacy Enhancement Program on First-Time Mothers’ Self-Efficacy in Care for Premature Infants

Abstract

The objective of this quasi-experimental study was to examine the effects of self-efficacy enhancement program for first-time mothersin care for premature infants. By convenience sampling, the study subjects included 40 mothers of premature infants who had medical treatment in the neonatal semi-critical unit, Faculty of Medicine, Vajira Hospital, University of Bangkok Metropolis. The study subjects were divided into control and experimental groups with 20 subjects each. The control group received the usual nursing care from the healthcare personnel, while the experimental group had additionally participated in the 7-day self-efficacy enhancement program. Data were collected by using a demographic data assessment form and a questionnaire on the first-time mothers’ self-efficacy in care for premature infants validated by 3 experts in pediatrics .The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was .96. Analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used for data analysis.

The results indicated that the first-time mothers who had participated in the program had significantly higher self-efficacy than those who did not participate in the program (F = 10.367, p<.01). Thus, the program should be promoted as a supplement to the usual nursing care. In addition, the study of long-term self-efficacy retention should also be further investigated.