Giving and receiving: a case study in service learning.

Service learning is becoming a requirement for many universities wanting to connect with the communities surrounding them while also instilling civic responsibility in their students. The process should benefit all involved. In the following case study, the authors describe their experience of initiating a service learning component in an introductory nursing course, from the design to the implementation of the project. Faculty concerns and student reactions are included.

Breastfeeding mothers' experiences using a supplemental feeding tube device: finding an alternative.

Strategies promoting initiation and successful continuation of breastfeeding are important in facilitating the breastfeeding experience. However, unique difficulties with breastfeeding may occur that necessitate specific interventions, to prevent early weaning and promote satisfaction with the breastfeeding experience. Special devices have been recommended and used to help women overcome various breastfeeding problems. A supplemental feeding tube device (SFTD) is a device that permits supplemental nourishment for infants while still preserving the breastfeeding goals of the mother. The purpose of this naturalistic study was to describe the experiences of breastfeeding mothers who used SFTDs to establish, reestablish, or supplement infant feeding at the breast. From the findings, 3 groups of themes emerged: seeking a solution, managing the challenges, and forming opinions. The underlying theme identified by all of the participants in the study was "finding an alternative." Women found the SFTD to be an acceptable alternative that facilitated their breastfeeding experience.

Low-income, urban minority women's perceptions of self- and infant care during the postpartum period.

OBJECTIVE: To describe low-income, urban, first-time mothers' perceptions about self-care and infant care during the first 6-months postpartum. DESIGN: Naturalistic approach. SETTING: Recruitment from community centers and churches. PARTICIPANTS: Thirteen Hispanic and African American women who delivered their first infants within the past 6 months. METHODS: Demographic and health information data were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics. Semistructured interviews were conducted; data were coded and then clustered conceptually into categories. RESULTS: Postpartum maternal self- and infant care issues included four categories: preparedness for discharge, confidence and satisfaction with mothering, concerns about infant care, and indifference to maternal self-care. Women were confident in caring for themselves and their infants and reported few unmet learning needs or health concerns. External sources of stress included finances, uncertain living arrangements, and relationship issues. CONCLUSION: Health care providers who care for low-income postpartum women need to acknowledge the influence of external stressors that contribute to health outcomes in this population. It is vital that nurses collaborate with other health care providers to make certain that community connections are made for women who might need additional services beyond the postpartum check-up visit.

Focusing on maternal health beyond breastfeeding and depression during the first year postpartum.

Nursing experts reviewed publications between 2003 and 2013 to identify practices for the care of women during the recovery year after childbirth. They focused on maternal transition, role and function, and psychosocial support. Findings indicated that clarification of the psychosocial meanings of childbirth and motherhood and family support systems that strengthen or hinder optimal wellness and functioning are needed. In addition, evidence is required to promote healthy transitions during this transition year.