title: The holistic health care of couples undergoing IVF/ET.
abstract: The purpose of this paper is to discuss the role of health professionals as educators, counsellors and support system persons for couples undergoing in-vitro fertilisation/embryo transfer (IVF/ET). All health care professionals must take a more assertive role in promoting the holistic health care approach to IVF patients so that they may be protected from unnecessary emotional distress. Prolonged insensitive evaluations with no clear end in view intensify frustrations and erode the patient's self-esteem. Comprehensive medical/nursing services are needed, as well as ongoing education, counselling and psychological support. Holistic health care considers all diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. Emphasis should be put on answering patients' questions, allaying fears and recognising any medical or psychological factors that may be important during the course of therapy. Adequate pre- and post-operative preparation of the couple should be a priority for health professionals.
authors.forename: H J
authors.initials: HJ
authors.lastname: Kuczynski
mesh_terms: D004624:Embryo Transfer; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro; D006694:Holistic Health; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008880:Midwifery; D009732:Nursing Care; D011247:Pregnancy