“Comfortable” care provided by skilled nurses in the field of maternity nursing

Abstract

Objective

The objective of this study is to clarify the practice contents considered by skilled nurses (nurses and midwives) as “comfortable” care in the field of maternal nursing.

Subjects and Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven skilled nurses (2 nurses and 5 midwives) with more than 6-7 years of clinical experience in perinatal nursing within the field of maternal nursing, and the data were analyzed qualitatively and descriptively.

Results

The characteristics of the practice contents considered by skilled nurses as “comfortable” care consisted of three core categories: [“Reducing physical and mental suffering” by being ‘on hand’ as a professional during the perinatal period], [“Supporting decision-making” regarding self-care throughout the perinatal period], and [“Adjusting the environment” with respect for human naturalness and ordinariness].

Conclusion

The results suggest that skilled nurses, equipped with specialized knowledge, skills, and attitudes, are able to create “comfortable” care continuously during the perinatal period by being by the side of women and their families throughout the perinatal period and by aiming to provide physical and mental comfort while looking ahead. It was also suggested that by respecting the “naturalness” and “individuality” of the daily lives of women, children, and families, it is possible to support them in realizing their innate abilities, such as their ability to care for themselves and make decisions, and ultimately provide excellent care that only skilled nursing can provide, with the intention of achieving physical and mental comfort.