2016 Volume 19 Issue 3 Pages 70-78
Objective: To elucidate the reasons on which public health nurses base their determination of the need for support for mothers during pregnancy, such as at the time of submission of the pregnancy notification form, as well as subsequent support contents.
Method: Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 10 public health nurses with 5 years of practical experience in maternal and child health activities, and the data were qualitatively analyzed.
Results: The reasons on which public health nurses based their determination that mothers required support comprised six categories and 15 subcategories. “Inference of having difficulties in life” was identified as a core category. Support contents for mothers comprised seven categories and 32 subcategories. “Always being nearby and accompanying the individual on her path” was identified as a core category. Feelings experienced during support comprised two categories and seven subcategories.
Discussion: Public health nurses determined the need for support in mothers by engaging in “Inference of having difficulties in life” based on the observations they made in their interactions with mothers during pregnancy. They provided support for these women by always being sympathetic and focusing on feelings in their interactions. This support method of “Always being nearby and accompanying the individual on her path” was based on a gradual development of relationships. Public health nurses have thoughts such as “Impatience towards the due date as delivery approaches” and “Anxiety regarding the safety of the child not being ensured” while providing support. However, they think that valuing the mother’s thoughts, such as “Waiting for the mother to decide by herself to the limit” raises confidence in her child care and helps to prevent abuse.
