Using the Parental Stressor Scale: Nicu with a British sample of mothers of moderate risk preterm infants

This paper presents an exploration of the validity of the Parental Stressor Scale: NICU [Miles et al. (1993) Parental Stressor Scale: NICU, Nursing Research, 42, 148-152] with a sample of British mothers of moderate risk preterm infants. Forty mothers were recruited to the main study (seven families declined). The PSS: NICU was completed within 48-96 hours of delivery. Subscales measuring stress from 'sights and sounds', 'appearance and behaviour of infant' and 'relationship with infant' show a range of responses and show good internal consistency. Items relating to 'staff behaviours and communication' were reported to be 'not applicable'. Relationships with infant and maternal variables are explored. In the light of other studies, the results suggest the importance of timing in measuring sources of stress for parents. The PSS: NICU could be improved by the addition/revision of items, particularly in the staff behaviour and communication subscale. New subscale development relating to birth experience, practical hassles and time pressures, and maternal role transition is suggested.