First-time mothers' expectations of public health nurses in Finland

Abstract

The purpose of this explorative study was to ascertain what kind of guidance and support first-time mothers expected from public health nurses (PHN) at child welfare clinics, while they were still on the maternity ward after delivery. Data were collected by an open-ended question as part of a questionnaire between January and May 1995. The sample comprised 219 mothers. Content analysis was applied. Mothers' expectations focused both on the content of support and on the mode of interaction. Mothers expected that issues concerning mainly the child, but also the mother, and the whole family would be discussed at the child welfare clinic. Mothers expected to receive advice and instruction on childcare, that interaction would be individual and family-centred in nature, and that the care would be continuous. Mothers hoped that the atmosphere of interaction would be safe, confidential, peaceful and encouraging. PHNs were expected to have not only professional skill, that is, knowledge and competence, but also a friendly, empathic attitude and a sense of humour. Mothers' expectations of the PHN varied greatly, so the support provided by the PHN should be based on charting the family's need for support, not on routine guidance and counselling. Further research should focus on how the family's need for support changes during the child's first year of life.