Graduation Year
2025
Document Type
Senior Thesis
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Primary Major
Nursing
Thesis Advisor
Andrea Boyle, PhD, FNAP, ANP
Abstract
Labor and Delivery is the physiological process in which a pregnant woman gives birth to a baby. With an increase of the Hispanic/Latinx population, the need for Spanish-speaking nurses also increases. Specifically in labor and delivery, language barriers play a critical role for a Latina mother’s laboring experience. However, according to the research, there is limited data on the effects of language concordance/discordance for laboring Latina mothers. To investigate, primary research articles were reviewed focusing on patient experiences with language concordance and discordance, childbirth experiences across different races, and nurses' perceptions of patient experiences related to language barriers. This proposed study explores the impact of native Spanish-speaking nurses on the labor experience of Latina mothers, focusing on whether language concordance enhances communication, reduces anxiety, and improves overall care during labor. Utilizing a qualitative exploratory descriptive design, the research will include 5-10 postpartum Latina women (native Spanish speakers, 2-3 months postpartum) and 5-10 Labor and Delivery nurses (licensed, bilingual in English and Spanish with at least 1 year of experience). Data will be gathered through individual interviews with postpartum women and focus group sessions with nurses, using open-ended questions to explore the effects of language concordance on care quality and patient satisfaction. Data will be analyzed using content and thematic analysis to identify overarching themes. Findings may contribute to better understanding how native Spanish-speaking nurses impact Latina mothers' labor experiences and offer insights into the potential benefits of prioritizing language concordance and cultural competence in staffing decisions for Labor and Delivery units. If confirmed, this research could have significant implications for improving patient care, reducing disparities, and enhancing the labor experience for Latina women.