Feelings, thoughts, and attitudes of pregnant women towards newborn heel blood screening test: a mixed-methods study

This study was conducted to determine the feelings, thoughts, and attitudes of pregnant women towards the newborn heel blood screening test. The research has a mixed-methods design, where quantitative and qualitative data are evaluated together. The study was conducted between December 14, 2023, and May 5, 2024, and included 288 women whose pregnancies were confirmed biochemically, clinically, and radiologically. Data were collected through a questionnaire consisting of multiple-choice and open-ended questions, prepared based on a literature review and developed with expert opinion. Quantitative findings showed that marital status was significantly associated with selected newborn heel blood screening test-related statements. Chi-square analysis indicated that single pregnant women were significantly more likely than married women to report reading about the newborn heel blood screening test and to state that they had not encountered children developing allergic reactions following the test (χ², p < 0.05). No statistically significant associations were observed between marital status and other test-related statements (p > 0.05). As a result of the qualitative analysis, it was determined that pregnant women's hesitations regarding the newborn heel blood screening test were related to lack of information, misinformation from social media, lack of communication with healthcare professionals, and trust issues. While the majority of participants found the test necessary for early diagnosis, some approached the application cautiously due to lack of information, fear, and distrust. The findings indicate that pregnant women need to be informed more comprehensively and accurately about newborn screening tests. The role of healthcare professionals in education and counseling processes is critically important.