Factors that influence first-time mothers' choice and experience of early discharge.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to describe factors that influenced first-time mothers' choice of and experiences during the first postnatal week, after early discharge without a domiciliary visit by the midwife.


METHODS
Interviews were analysed using content analysis.


METHODS
The nine participants were recruited from the Maternity Department at a University Hospital in Sweden. The catchment area included both an urban and rural population.


RESULTS
One main category and three subcategories emerged from the text. The main category was a feeling of confidence and security and the subcategories were being able to meet the needs of the baby, feeling 'back to normal' and receiving support.


CONCLUSIONS
Factors that influenced first-time mothers' choice and experience of early discharge were their sense of confidence and security, that they had support from their partner and that they could trust the follow-up organization.


CONCLUSIONS
A booked telephone call and a follow-up visit to the midwife can be sufficient as a programme for first-time mothers choosing early discharge.
Löf
Maria
M
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.
Svalenius
Elizabeth Crang
EC
Persson
Eva K
EK
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000328:Adult; D000359:Aftercare / Q000523:psychology; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002755:Choice Behavior; D003376:Counseling / Q000458:organization & administration; D005260:Female; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006785:Hospitals, University; D006801:Humans; D007389:Internal-External Control; D007902:Length of Stay; D008603:Mental Health; D009035:Mothers / Q000523:psychology*; D009721:Nurse Midwives; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010351:Patient Discharge; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000458:organization & administration; D011181:Postnatal Care / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000523:psychology*; D020377:Self Efficacy; D012944:Social Support; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013548:Sweden