Factors Influencing Fatigue in Mothers of Hospitalized Children

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Fatigue in mothers of hospitalized children is an important component for her child's health. This study was done to identify factors influencing fatigue in mothers of hospitalized children. METHODS: A descriptive correlation study design was used. Participants were 157 mothers of hospitalized children in a university hospital located in one city. Data were analyzed using t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients and stepwise multiple regression. RESULTS: Mean score for fatigue in mothers of hospitalized children was 2.11±0.53. There were significant differences in scores for fatigue in these mothers according to education, sleep satisfaction, and family support. Multiple regression analysis showed that the important factors related to fatigue in mothers of hospitalized children were parenting stress (β =.44), hours of sleep (β =-.25), and age (β =-.21). These factors explained 38% of the total variance. CONCLUSION: Research results suggest that nursing interventions for mothers of hospitalized children are needed in order to improve the comfort and health of the mothers and facilitate the recovery of their child.