Objective.

The study sought to describe the experiences of parents of premature children regarding discharge from the neonatal unit.

Methodology.

This was a qualitative study, in which 10 semi-structured interviews were conducted with parents of premature infants upon discharge from the neonatal unit. Data were analyzed following principles of grounded theory; open and axial coding was performed.

Results.

The following categories emerged from the analysis of the information: feelings experienced upon discharge, and experience of the discharge as a process; the latter category clearly identified barriers and facilitators. The results highlight that the parents experience ambivalent feelings; joy is mixed with the fear of caring for a premature child at home.

Conclusion.

For parents, discharge of premature children from the neonatal unit is a complex process during which conflicting feelings are experienced. Nursing must develop strategies to involve parents early in the care of their children during the hospital stay.

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