Nurses' views on the meaning of touch in obstetrical nursing practice.
This qualitative pilot study explored the meaning of touch in obstetrical nursing. Interviews with practicing labor and delivery nurses provided the data for the study. Eleven nurses participated in taped interview sessions immediately after completing care of laboring clients. Interviews were transcribed, and thematic analyses were performed by two investigators. Group validation of themes derived from the interviews concluded the study. Interpretation of the data suggests an inherently sincere and reciprocal nature to touch. The meaning of touch appears to be conveyance of caring, acceptance, support, competence, and comfort. Touch is used on a basis of intuitive sensitivity and as an act of personal knowing on the part of the expert nurse. Implications for nursing practice, education, and research are suggested.
Weaver
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University of Virginia, School of Nursing, Charlottesville 22903-3395.
D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007406:Interview, Psychological; D007743:Labor, Obstetric / Q000523:psychology*; D009773:Obstetric Nursing / Q000379:methods*; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011247:Pregnancy; D014110:Touch