Effect of Nursing Guidelineson Coping of Infertile CouplesUndergoing In Vitro Fertilization

Abstract

Context: Infertility is defined as not being able to conceive after one year of unprotected sex. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process of fertilization where an ovum is combined with sperm outside the body, in vitro. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is psychologically and emotionally stressful. Coping strategies are needed to master, tolerate, reduce, or minimize stressful events. Aim:This study aimed to evaluate the effect of nursing guidelines on coping of infertile couples' undergoing In Vitro Fertilization.Methods:A quasi-experimental research design was utilizedto achieve the aim of this study. This study conducted at the assisted reproductive technology unit of Ain shams Maternity University Hospitalon aconvenient sample of 98 couples undergoing fertility treatments. Two tools were used for data collection; the first tool was astructuredinterviewing questionnaire to assess the couple's socio-demographic data, obstetric history, the couple's knowledge regarding in vitro fertilization. The second tool was ways of coping scale (WQS)to assess coping strategies among the infertile couple.Results:There is no statistically significant difference between couples in both groups according to their knowledge and their copingstrategiestoIVF before the implementation of nursing guidelines (p> 0.05). In contrast, there is a highly statistically significant improvement in knowledge and coping strategies of couples on the study group compared to control groupcouples after implementation of nursing guidelines(p<0.001).Conclusion:The finding of the current study supported the hypothesis, which stated that the infertile couples who will expose to the nursing guidelines, will exhibit improvedcoping strategiestoIVFcompared to the controls. The study recommended the application of nursing guidelines at the IVF unitof Ain Shams Maternity University Hospital and other settings for IVF treatment as routine care to improve infertile couples' coping strategies