The lived experiences and social support needs of first-time mothers at health care facilities in the City of Tshwane, South Africa.
Mmajapi E T Masala-Chokwe, Tendani S Ramukumba
PMID 29041783WHAT IT FOUND
First-time mothers after early discharge described feeling unsure, anxious and unable to bathe, hold, breastfeed or care for the cord, or to recognise when the baby was unwell.
Key findings
01First-time mothers described lack of confidence, anxiety and a need for social support.
02First-time mothers reported gaps in practical baby care, including holding, bathing, umbilical cord care and recognising when the baby was unwell.
03Some first-time mothers linked the baby's urination or stool problems to the umbilical cord not falling off.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for RNs
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What it does not show
Only 14 first-time mothers were interviewed, so the findings cannot be generalised to all first-time mothers in other areas in Tshwane. The sample was purposive and came from three facilities in one metropolitan area. Only first-time mothers were included, so experiences of other postpartum mothers were not captured. The study reports themes from interviews, not whether early discharge caused harm or whether support changed outcomes.
The easy way to misread this
Do not conclude that early discharge causes anxiety or that social support groups reduce it. The study reports what 14 first-time mothers said about their experiences, not an intervention outcome.