Concerns of primiparous mothers during the first forty-eight to seventy-two hours following hospital discharge and the availability of support systems

Hawkins, Heather Marion Matthews (1990) Concerns of primiparous mothers during the first forty-eight to seventy-two hours following hospital discharge and the availability of support systems. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the concerns of primiparous mothers during their first 48-72 hours at home following hospital discharge and the availability of support during this time period. This research could assist nurses in determining the need to provide continuing nursing support to healthy primiparous mothers immediately following hospital discharge. -- An exploratory descriptive methodology was used for the study. The sample of 41 healthy primiparous mothers were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The initial post hospital discharge concerns of these mothers were identified as well as the availability and utilization of support systems. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. -- The results indicated that new mothers have concerns soon after they go home from hospital. For healthy, well-educated mothers who had readily available sources of support, the frequency and intensity of concerns was relatively low. Mothers indicated they frequently knew there would be changes occuring and they were prepared for them and thus not concerned. The most frequent concerns were infant-related with maternal-self and situational concerns somewhat less frequent. The utilization of support was low. However, when mothers did seek support it was most frequently obtained for infant-related concerns. For maternal-self and situational concerns the most frequent source of support was the partner. For infant-related concerns, the family doctor and public health nurse were consulted equally. -- Currently public health nurses make postpartum home visits to all mothers. The timing and the necessity of all of these visits is being questioned. The results of this study suggest that all mothers should be assessed in hospital for their potential concerns and the availability of support systems, and that those deemed in need of immediate continuing nursing support receive an early home visit. Mothers assessed to be ready for discharge home should be assured of the accessibility of nursing support and that their need for professional support be reassessed periodically.

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