‘THE GOOD OUTWEIGH THE DIFFICULTIES’ WOMEN’S VIEWS ON THE VISITING RESTRICTIONS DURING COVID-19 IN THE NATIONAL MATERNITY HOSPITAL Sarah Cullen, Jean Doherty and Mary Brosnan
BACKGROUND
Due to the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic visiting restrictions were implemented in all hospitals throughout Ireland. While pregnant women do not appear more likely to contract Covid-19 than the general population (RCOG 2020), visiting restrictions were required to protect the safety of mothers, babies & staff working in the hospital. Furthermore, given space restrictions with the hospital, social distancing would not be possible if partners and children were attending with women for appointments and visiting women on inpatient wards.
AIMS This study aimed to gain an understanding of women’s experiences of visiting restrictions imposed due to covid-19.
METHODS
Ethical approval was granted for this evaluation. Women who attended the hospital for outpatient appointments and who were inpatients on the antenatal or postnatal ward during a two week period were asked to complete an anonymous survey. The survey included 13 questions each with a 5-point Likert scale and 4 open ended questions
RESULTS
RESULTS
“Overall, I agree with all the measures”
“Not being able to share the moment with my partner. This is our first child and we both are quite nervous…..”
A total of 422 surveys were completed. This poster will present some of the findings under four themes Safety A total of 97.6% (n=406) of women agreed that the hospital made adequate preparations for them to feel safe. Furthermore, 89.2% (n=373) of women somewhat, or strongly, agreed that the restrictions ‘are a good thing’. Strengthening these findings were comments from women
“The restrictions have had benefits as described above. Women don't always need to have partners with them and maybe this should be encouraged going forward. When I had my scan I was seen immediately. This was at the height of lockdown when staff numbers were most affected. I was very impressed” Benefits of Restrictions Overcrowding, or lack thereof, was a significant theme within the free-text comments. Many women praised the restrictions for reducing the footfall in the hospital. Women attributed a more efficient service to the reduction in crowds.
Birthing Partner Support Most women reported that the restrictions are a good thing and several advantages were cited about the restrictions. However, the most common negative consequences of the restrictions reported were about not having their partner with them. Additionally, 90.2% (n=101) of the women in the postnatal ward reported wanting their partner to be able to visit them*.
“Please let partners be part of the process, they are an amazing support and more for first time mothers” *Since this study was completed restrictions have changed to allow partners to visit women on the postnatal ward. Staff Support During Covid-19 94.7% (n=106) of women strongly, or somewhat, agreed with the statement that they received enough support from staff after their baby was born. Moreover, a significant number of comments were made about the support women received from staff:
“It was great that the wards were not busy with other visitors (friends, kids, grandparents)”
“Staff have been very helpful & attentive, especially in terms of helping me establish breastfeeding. They have been patient & encouraging in helping get the baby latched & find a position that suits us.”
“Hospital more efficient. Appointments on time – in & out. Safer environment feel as less people & children in clinics when waiting. Staff super helpful & even more understanding then usual”
“Amazing experience from our first scan to walking out the door today. The team of amazing people who have been loving, supportive, kind and up for a laugh & fun, have been wonderful”
CONCLUSION
Women who participated in this study were very complimentary about the safety aspect of the restrictions. Women were also very positive about the support received from staff after the birth of their baby. However, women miss having their partner for support during scans and to help after the baby is born.