Exploratory study on problems of postnatal mothers undergone L.S.C.S. with a view to identify the nursing care needs

Abstract

Introduction: Pregnancy is a vital event in a woman’s life that requires special attention from conception to the postnatal period. The early postnatal period is often associated with problems such as breast engorgement, breast complications, surgical site pain, constipation, and bowel and bladder disturbances. Mothers who undergo Lower Segment Caesarean Section (L.S.C.S.) are more prone to these issues, which, if not managed properly, may lead to short- and long-term morbidity, and in rare cases, mortality. Aim: The study aimed to identify the common problems and nursing care needs of postnatal mothers who had undergone L.S.C.S. Methods: A quantitative research design was adopted. The study was conducted on a purposive sample of 50 postnatal mothers admitted to the postnatal ward of Swami Rama Himalayan Hospital, Jollygrant, Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Mothers between day 1 and day 7 post-delivery were included. Data were collected using a background information form, an assessment checklist, and a six-point breast engorgement scale. Based on the findings, a structured nursing care plan was developed. Results: Findings showed that 100% of mothers experienced constipation and dehydration, 48–98% reported surgical site pain, and                   2–72% had difficulty in holding the baby during breastfeeding. Additionally, 28% had inverted nipples, 14% had large nipples, 2% reported slight difficulty in passing stool, and the mean breast engorgement score was 2.44 ± 0.733. Conclusion: The study concludes that postnatal problems among mothers who undergo L.S.C.S. can be reduced through supportive and need-based nursing care. Timely interventions improve recovery and enhance maternal well-being.