Question

A new mother tells the nurse that she is unsure if she will be able to transition into parenthood. What action should the nurse take?

Answer 1

A nurse should provide empathetic support, education, and resources to a new mother expressing uncertainty about parenthood. The nurse can validate the mother’s feelings and suggest additional professional assistance if needed, to facilitate a smoother transition into her new role.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a new mother expresses uncertainty about transitioning into parenthood, it is important for the nurse to provide support and reassurance. The nurse should engage in an empathetic dialogue, acknowledging the mother's concerns and validating her feelings. Education and resources can also be offered to help the mother feel more prepared for the upcoming changes.

Part of the nurse's role in this situation may involve discussing the normalcy of such feelings and the complexities of parenthood. The nurse can suggest parenting classes, support groups, or literature that may help the mother build confidence in her new role. If the concern seems to stem from deeper emotional struggles, the nurse may consider directing the mother to a mental health professional who specializes in postpartum care.

In summary, the nurse should take an active role in supporting the new mother through education, validation, and the provision of resources or referrals to relevant professional services to help ease her transition into parenthood.