TIE

SECOND PLACE - SESSION B (Cell and Molecular Biology, Medical Sciences, Microbiology, Physics and Astronomy )

The Experience Of Perinatal Care At A Birthing Center: A Qualitative

Pilot Study

Amber T. Pewitt, B.A., East Tennessee State University, College of Nursing,

Perinatal health care providers face a crisis as rates of malpractice and litigation rise. Perhaps one solution lies in focusing on patient satisfaction with the birth experience. Defining a satisfactory birth experience is ingrained in this solution. This study aimed to uncover women's experiences of nurse-midwife directed care at a freestanding birthing center. Qualitative description and phenomenology guided the design. The sample included seven primiparous women. Data were collected through interviews, and qualitative methods guided data analysis. Three themes emerged: 1) Empowerment, 2) Sense of Motherhood and 3) Establishing and Strengthening Relationships. These themes portray positive effects participants attributed to care received at the birthing center. Findings revealed that caring providers result in positive psychosocial outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.