Title of Research
Start Date
16-11-2018 9:30 AM
End Date
16-11-2018 1:00 AM
Abstract
An Extra Set of Hands or a Roadblock: Nursing Perceptions of a Birth Doula in the United States of America: An Integrative Literature Review
Danielle Pearl, MS
Faculty Sponsor: Alison DiValerio, MS, RN
Abstract
Background: Several studies analyze the relationship and perceptions of nurses of doulas. The studies establish that while the roles of the doula and the nurse are markedly different, they both aim at serving women best if they complement one another. A common thread among the research the threat some nurses feel by doula support, it is possible that the doula’s role is misunderstood.
Objectives: What are general perceptions of doulas or nurses and what can further be done to bridge this gap and build a better and stronger working relationship between the two professionals?
Methods: A computerized search of the literature was conducted using Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science databases. A total of 3 databases were used to acquire relevant sources: PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Health Literature (CINAHL) and Medline. Multiple text combinations were run through the three databases.
Results: Themes of positivity towards doulas versus animosity, threat and resistance by the nurse were identified. Identification and understanding ones roles had a tremendous effect on the ultimate outcome.
Conclusions: Findings among the research indicate that some nurses feel threatened by doula support. Also revealed is the possibility that the doula’s role is misunderstood. If both members of the labor team are able to distinguish each other’s roles, it will enable them to work together to provide women with safe and rewarding births.
Key words: doula, nurse, childbirth, partnership, perceptions
Included in
An Extra Set of Hands or a Roadblock: Nursing Perceptions of a Birth Doula in the United States of America
An Extra Set of Hands or a Roadblock: Nursing Perceptions of a Birth Doula in the United States of America: An Integrative Literature Review
Danielle Pearl, MS
Faculty Sponsor: Alison DiValerio, MS, RN
Abstract
Background: Several studies analyze the relationship and perceptions of nurses of doulas. The studies establish that while the roles of the doula and the nurse are markedly different, they both aim at serving women best if they complement one another. A common thread among the research the threat some nurses feel by doula support, it is possible that the doula’s role is misunderstood.
Objectives: What are general perceptions of doulas or nurses and what can further be done to bridge this gap and build a better and stronger working relationship between the two professionals?
Methods: A computerized search of the literature was conducted using Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science databases. A total of 3 databases were used to acquire relevant sources: PubMed, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Health Literature (CINAHL) and Medline. Multiple text combinations were run through the three databases.
Results: Themes of positivity towards doulas versus animosity, threat and resistance by the nurse were identified. Identification and understanding ones roles had a tremendous effect on the ultimate outcome.
Conclusions: Findings among the research indicate that some nurses feel threatened by doula support. Also revealed is the possibility that the doula’s role is misunderstood. If both members of the labor team are able to distinguish each other’s roles, it will enable them to work together to provide women with safe and rewarding births.
Key words: doula, nurse, childbirth, partnership, perceptions