Humanization of care of postpartum women: conceptions of nursing professionals in a public hospital

Abstract

The study analyzes conceptions about the humanization of care regarding women in the puerperium taken from the nursing staff in a public hospital in Cuiaba, Mato Grosso. This is a qualitative, descriptive and exploratory research with the participation of nine nursing agents. Semi-structured interviews were carried out between March and May 2010 followed by the thematic content analysis of the collected material. The humanization of assistance of postpartum women is conceived as relationships based on respect, practical guidance to the woman and her family on the care of the newborn, listening and ample attendance to the women health needs. It is widely said that the humanization of care in the institution is hindered by the following factors: poor infrastructure, resistance and unpreparedness of the team, lack of support from hospital management and the individuals’ lack of knowledge of their own rights. The achievement of the humanized practices in postpartum period according to the national policy of humanization is still a challenge for the institution and nursing workers.