The Effects of Postpartum Education in Primipara Mothers on Their Readiness for Hospital Discharge and Maternal Self-confidence

Abstract

Objective: The postpartum period is one of the most critical periods of a woman. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect of the postpartum education that is provided to mothers on the readiness for hospital discharge and maternal self-confidence. Methods: This quasi-experimental study, with a non-random post-test control group, included all postpartum mothers who are hospitalized in a state hospital, including 102 primipara postpartum mothers (50 patients for the experimental group and 52 for the control group). Data were collected using a personal information form, Pharis self-confidence scale (PSCS), and Readiness for Hospital Discharge Scale-New Mother form (RHD-NMF). No intervention was made to the control group except for data collection. The experimental group took structured postpartum and neonatal care education and data were collected. Results: The study showed that the experimental group's PSCS scores, the mean RHD-NMF total scores, and the RHD-NMF personal status, knowledge, and ability subscales were significantly higher than the control group (p<0.05). Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was determined between the two scales (p<0.05). Conclusion: This study revealed that postpartum education supports mothers' readiness for hospital discharge and maternal self-confidence. Therefore, it should be routinely practiced in hospitals.