Nursing support in caring premature babies with delays in oral feeding skills: A qualitative descriptive study

Background Oral feeding skills are a dynamic and complex process involving the premature baby, parents, and environment. The role of the nurse as an advocate is needed to improve oral feeding skills of premature babies. Objective This research aimed to explore the nurse experience for caring premature baby with delayed oral feeding skills. Methods This research used a descriptive qualitative method with a purposive sampling technique. This research was conducted on 12 nurses from intensive care levels III, II, and outpatients. Data were collected through in-depth interviews until reaching data saturation. This research used thematic analysis by Kiger and Varpio (2020). Results The research include: (1) Creating a therapeutic environment; (2) Supporting parent-infant dyadic interaction; (3) Supporting transition home. Conclusion Nursing intervention support is needed in caring for premature babies with delayed oral feeding skills through collaboration between nurses, parents, and families. Family-centered care needs to be carried out in caring for premature babies with delayed oral feeding skills.