Classification and influencing factors of parent activation among parents of preterm infants at a NICU in China: a latent profile analysis

Objective To investigate the current status of parental activation among parents of preterm infants in a Chinese NICU, identify latent profiles, and analyze influencing factors across different profile categories. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in China from February to August 2025. Preterm infants and their parents were enrolled. During weekly family-integrated care sessions or at discharge, parents completed a questionnaire consisting of a demographic information form, the Parent-Patient Activation Measure, the Premature Infant Care Competency Scale, and the Social Support Rating Scale. Mplus 8.3 was employed to identify distinct parental activation profiles. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were subsequently performed to examine influencing factors associated with each identified profile. Results The Parent-Patient Activation Scale score was 42.11 (31.58, 51.32). Latent profile analysis revealed that parental activation could be categorized into three distinct subgroups: the “Low Parent-Patient Activation Group” (28.9%), the “Moderate Parent-Patient Activation-Low Health Efficacy Group” (55.4%), and the “High Parent-Patient Activation Group” (15.7%). Multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that gestational age, monthly household income per capita, level of social support, and preterm infant parental care competence were significant influencing factors for the latent profile of parental activation in parents of preterm infants (all p < 0.05). Conclusion This study identified three distinct profiles of parental activation among parents of preterm infants in this Chinese NICU. Key influencing factors included gestational age, monthly per capita household income, parental competency, and social support. These findings underscore the importance of early identification of these profiles and the need for tailored interventions to strengthen parents' beliefs, knowledge, skills, and confidence in managing their infant's health.