Graduation Year
2024
Document Type
Senior Thesis
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Primary Major
Nursing
Primary Minor
Psychology
Thesis Advisor
Deborah Meshel, BSN, MSN
Abstract
Postpartum depression and anxiety are experienced by 70-80% of new mothers, and the likelihood is twice as high for Hispanic women compared to caucasian women. Supportive techniques to help monolingual mothers in labor are lacking. A translator's assistance on the hospital floor, such as a video call from an iPad, is often impersonal and lacks the supportive atmosphere that women preparing to give birth need. The primary objective of this study is to explore the potential benefits of providing Spanish-speaking courses to labor and delivery nurses, particularly in cultivating a nurturing and supportive atmosphere for Hispanic mothers during childbirth. By exploring this, this research aims to see whether such interventions could contribute to a decrease in the incidence of Postpartum Depression (PPD) among Hispanic Spanish-speaking mothers. To address this research question, a quasi-experimental design will be implemented, allowing for an investigation into the impact of language training on healthcare providers. The study will involve the recruitment of a convenient sample comprising 100 Hispanic Spanish-speaking women; through a quantitative approach, data will be collected via pre and post-tests. The anticipated outcome of the study is to support the hypothesis that the integration of Spanish language training for healthcare personnel holds promise in enhancing communication and support tailored specifically for Hispanic women. Consequently, it is hypothesized that this enhancement in communication and support would show a reduction in the risk of postpartum depression. This comprehensive approach aims to shed light on the potential effectiveness of language-based interventions for PPD among Hispanic mothers, thereby contributing valuable insights to the field of maternal care and highlighting the importance of culturally sensitive practices in improving maternal mental health outcomes.