Searching for a Well on the Antepartum Service.

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Theology
• Medical Ethics

Background:

• Women on inpatient antepartum services face prolonged uncertainty due to obstetric complications.
• This uncertainty impacts maternal-fetal outcomes and disrupts clinical routines.
• The biblical encounter at Jacob's well offers a model for compassionate care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how the biblical narrative of Jesus and the Samaritan woman can inform antepartum care.
• To introduce

Main Methods:

• Theological reflection on the biblical account of the Samaritan woman at the well.
• Narration of selected patient experiences from inpatient antepartum services.
• Intertwining theological insights with clinical narratives.

Main Results:

• The encounter at the well highlights themes of vulnerability, truthfulness, respect, and reverence.
• These themes can guide clinicians in providing holistic care.
• The Samaritan woman's experience demonstrates transformation through being known and heard.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians can adopt 'well person care,' addressing both medical needs and deeper patient 'thirsts.'
• This model fosters transformative encounters by prioritizing vulnerability, truthfulness, and respect.
• Applying insights from the Samaritan woman's story can enhance the care of antepartum patients.