Impact of an educational intervention on postpartum depression for primary care nurses: a quasi-experimental study

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the impact of an educational intervention on nursing care for women with signs of postpartum depression for primary health care nurses. Method: Quasi-experimental, before-and-after study carried out with 14 primary health care nurses from a municipality, who participated in an educational intervention on nursing care for women with signs of postpartum depression. Qualitative data analysis was carried out before and after the intervention, using Bardin’s thematic content analysis. Results: From the comparison of the content responses before and after the intervention, the nurses presented more knowledge about postpartum depression, especially in specific signs and symptoms, and improvement in the recognition and management of baby blues; they began using scales for screening and better monitoring of emotional symptoms; they began adopting more humanized practices, in addition to reporting greater safety in care and multidisciplinary integration. Conclusion: The intervention had a positive impact and expanded nurses’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes regarding postpartum depression, which contributed to more empathetic and comprehensive care. ReBEC: RBR-3hv3hhs.