IRB Number
25-1109-206
Date of Award
Spring 4-10-2026
Document Type
Capstone
Degree Name
Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)
Department
Occupational Therapy
First Advisor
Zeida Gutierrez, Ph.D., MHS, OTR/L, Doctoral Coordinator
Second Advisor
Helen Carey, Ph.D., MSc Adv OT, Dip COT, OTR/L, Program Director
Medical Subject Headings
Infant, Caregivers, Intensive Care Units, Neonatal, Mental Health, Psychological Well-Being, Anxiety, Self Care, Participation, Health Resources
Abstract
This capstone project explored the mental health challenges experienced by caregivers following their infant’s discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and the resulting impact on occupational participation. Using a mixed-methods design, data was collected through an anonymous survey of 46 post-NICU caregivers, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative responses. Findings revealed that caregivers commonly experienced significant mental health concerns, including stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, particularly within the first year following discharge. Although results demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in mental health over time, many caregivers reported limited access to mental health resources and professional support. Importantly, the study identified a meaningful relationship between caregiver mental health and occupational participation, indicating that poorer mental health was associated with decreased engagement in daily activities, including self-care, social participation, and leisure. Qualitative findings further highlighted themes of role imbalance, emotional burden, and challenges in managing daily routines. Educational resources were also developed and disseminated to healthcare providers to enhance awareness of caregiver needs and promote family-centered care. Overall, this project addresses a critical gap in the literature by emphasizing the importance of supporting both the psychological well-being and occupational engagement of post-NICU caregivers to improve long-term outcomes for families.
Recommended Citation
Knight, E. S. (2026). Understanding Post-NICU Caregiver Mental Health and Occupational Participation: Implications for Healthcare Practice. [Doctoral project, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences]. SOAR @ USA: Student Capstone Papers Collection. https://doi.org/10.46409/sr.USYM5415
Related Content
This capstone was presented as a poster presentation at the Spring 2026 OTD Capstone Symposium, available as: Knight, E. S., Gutierrez, Z., & Fischer, M. (2026, April 10). Understanding Post-NICU Caregiver Mental Health and Occupational Participation: Implications for Healthcare Practice. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonesspring2026/46
Comments
Capstone project submitted to the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Occupational Therapy.