The Experience of Maternal and Child Health Nurses Responding to Women with Postpartum Depression

Abstract

Previous studies have shown that maternal and child health nurses (MCH nurses) are in a unique position to help mothers with postpartum depression (PPD), but little has been done to understand the MCH nurses' day-to-day experience. This Australian study addresses that issue by analyzing the results of eight in-depth interviews with MCH nurses. The data obtained from these interviews was analyzed using the phenomenological method described by Creswell, adapted from Moustakas. From this analysis five themes emerge: how MCH nurses recognize symptoms of PPD; the importance of having treatment options available; the role of rapport; the limits of MCH nurses in responding to PPD; and how MCH nurses respond when recognizing new cases of PPD. The results of the study reveal several areas for policy review, most significantly the need for more MCH nurse training to recognize the symptoms of PPD and identify the appropriate treatment option. In addition, a review of staff retention and mobility policies is recommended to improve rapport with mothers and maintain and grow knowledge of local treatment options.

A qualitative meta‐synthesis: public health nurses role in the identification and management of perinatal mental health problems

“…), one ethnography (Rollans et al . ), one phenomenology (Rush ), one grounded theory (McConnell et al . ), one case study (Almond & Lathlean ), one mixed methodology (Jomeen et al .…”

“…The openness of the woman facilitated easier recognition of PMHPs (Jomeen et al . ); however, participants had to look beyond the surface to uncover how the woman was really feeling (Rush , Tammentie et al . , Borglin et al .…”

“…). Home visiting varied according to each individual woman's needs (Brown & Bacigalupo , Rush , Borglin et al . ) and in cases where PHNs had a role antenatally this was perceived to support the development of the relationship and continuity of care (Clark , Brown & Bacigalupo ).…”

“…). Participants identified the importance of having time to undertake a meaningful visit and assessment and it was acknowledged that there was more time available in the home in comparison to clinics (Rush , Borglin et al . ).…”

“…). However, one study identified reluctance by some PHNs to provide care to women with PND because of potential of overreliance of the woman on the PHN (Rush ).…”