Graduation Year
2020
Document Type
Senior Thesis
Degree
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Primary Major
Nursing
Primary Minor
Leadership Studies
Thesis Advisor
Patricia Harris, PhD, RN, CNS
Abstract
This paper will review existing research regarding the importance of prenatal healthcare. The research included covers the barriers existing to pregnant mothers and the consequences these barriers pose for mothers and babies with prenatal care that is unobtainable or undesired. This paper will also review current interventions that have provided under-served mothers with the resources they need to better ensure a healthy pregnancy and delivery. Research analyzing mother’s attitudes and beliefs regarding prenatal care will be addressed in addition to how these beliefs may attribute to the health outcomes of their babies. Finally, this paper will include my own research study conducted to gain further insight on the impact of certain barriers on mother’s ability to access prenatal care.
Key words: access, barriers, neonatal health outcomes, prenatal care