About One DNP

I earned my "terminal practice" degree in nursing from the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center in a journey of excitement and challenge. It inspired me to advocate for an all encompassing clinical credential rather than continuing the hodgepodge of nonsensical initials. I hope these entries will provide entertainment and insight into the Doctor of Nursing Practice experience, which will soon be the entry standard for all advanced practice nurses.

Saturday, April 12, 2014

Abstract Accepted!

For the fourth year running, I am honored to have a presentation accepted for the American Psychiatric Nurses Association annual conference. As with most topics, you can tell what is going on personally by what I present professionally. This one is especially meaningful because I am stepping out of my clinical comfort zone to do the research while having the perspective as both provider and patient. In keeping to my roots, references will be available via my social network sites - stay tuned for the pinterest board!


Grieving Though Grateful: Reconciling the Traumatic and Disappointing Birth Experience

Purpose*
When a woman experiences a traumatic or disappointing birth, there often exists an emotional dichotomy between gratefulness for the child and grief toward the the experience.  This presentation describes characteristics that contribute to traumatic birth and resources for the PMH nurse to aid in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and collaboration.


Summary of evidence*
Though up to 30% of women world-wide experience traumatic birth, a review of the literature reveals a paucity of research, and the DSM-5 lacks discussion in the sections on perinatal mood disorders, trauma and stress-related disorders, or bereavement.

 

Description of practice or protocol*
Traumatic birth may be missed or mistaken for other postpartum mood disorders by clinicians, and under-reported by mothers due to stigma. Platitudes such as "all that matters is a healthy baby" minimize and invalidate the mother's grief toward the experience and contribute to feelings of guilt, anger, helplessness, or diminished self-esteem.

 

Validation of Evidence / Method of Evaluation*
Factors including psychiatric history, unplanned or emergent obstetric intervention, pain, loss of control, and lack of interpersonal support contribute to negative birth experiences, and put the mother at risk for ineffective maternal role attainment and mental health disorders.

 

Relevance to PMH Nursing / Results*
A comprehensive  understanding of traumatic birth provides the PMH nurse a foundation for enhanced assessment, intervention, integrative strategies, and interdisciplinary collaboration to help women at risk for or experienced traumatic birth.

 

Future implications*
Birth is not a mearly a means to an end, but an experience independent of the outcome.  Understanding the risk factors, characteristics, and resources results in refined diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and the opportunity to build connections with peer obstetric clinicians.