Effects of Support Interventions in Women Hospitalized With Preterm Labor

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Psychiatric Nursing
• Women's Health

Background:

• Preterm labor poses significant psychological distress, including anxiety and depression, impacting women's quality of life.
• Hospitalization for preterm labor necessitates effective support strategies to mitigate adverse mental health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of structured support interventions on anxiety, depression, and quality of life in women hospitalized with preterm labor.
• To compare the outcomes of routine nursing care versus enhanced support interventions.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, single-blind experimental design involving 243 women hospitalized with preterm labor in Taiwan.
• Intervention group (n=140) received specialized support, while the control group (n=103) received routine care.
• Standardized instruments, including the Beck Anxiety Inventory and Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, were administered at admission and after two weeks.

Main Results:

• Women receiving support interventions demonstrated significantly lower anxiety and depression scores compared to the control group.
• The control group experienced significant increases in anxiety and depression, alongside a decrease in quality of life.
• Support interventions positively influenced mental health and well-being during hospitalization.

Conclusions:

• Clinical nurses can effectively implement support interventions to alleviate anxiety and depression in women experiencing preterm labor.
• These findings highlight the importance of psychosocial support in managing high-risk pregnancies and improving patient outcomes.
• Support interventions represent a crucial component of comprehensive care for women with preterm labor.