Effect of a Play-based Intervention on the Anxiety of Mothers of Premature Babies Admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Objective The present study aims to examine the effect of a play-based intervention on anxiety mothers premature babies admitted neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Materials & Methods This is non-blinded randomized controlled clinical trial. participants were recruited from among (<37 weeks) NICU Hazrat-e Ali Asghar Hospital and divided into two groups (n=20) control using block randomization method. They 20-35 years old with at least high school diploma. Their had stable physiological conditions no physical disorders or specific diseases. was measured by Spielberger’s State-Trait inventory (STAI) before days after discharge. group received program for their once day, 5 until routine hospital care. Results Independent t-test results showed significant difference in scores STAI its domains between intervention. However, mean pre- post-scores total state domain (P<0.05), but it not terms trait (P>0.05). ANCOVA that size (P=0.001) score (P=0.004) 27% 20%, respectively. Conclusion intervention, can reduce consequently affect growth children mental health family society.