19.16 Psychosocial Support

Psychosocial support is a crucial aspect of nursing care for high-risk perinatal clients. These individuals often face increased stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges related to their medical conditions and concerns about their health and the well-being of their unborn baby. Psychosocial support is an ongoing process that requires sensitivity, empathy, and a holistic approach. By addressing the client’s emotional and psychological needs, in addition to medical concerns, nurses can contribute to the client’s  sense of overall well-being and help them navigate challenges related to high-risk pregnancies. Strategies for offering psychosocial support to high-risk perinatal clients include the following:

• Provide Information: Provide clear and accurate information about the client’s medical condition, treatment options, and potential outcomes. Reinforce information about medical procedures and interventions in a compassionate and understandable manner. Encourage the client to ask questions and express their concerns.
• Provide Emotional Support: Offer empathetic, active listening, and a nonjudgmental attitude. Create a calm, comfortable, and safe space for clients to express their feelings and reduce stress and anxiety. Acknowledge the client’s emotions and validate their experiences. Refer clients to professional counselors who specialize in mental health and high-risk pregnancies as needed. Provide information about support groups with others facing similar circumstances.
• Incorporate Cultural Beliefs: Develop individualized nursing care plans that incorporate the client’s cultural values and preferences.
• Encourage Partner and Family Involvement: Encourage partners and family members to attend appointments and be part of the client’s support system. Based on client preferences, facilitate open communication and provide resources to help loved ones understand and cope with the situation.
• Teach Coping Strategies: Teach relaxation techniques, mindfulness, and breathing exercises to help manage anxiety and stress. Encourage journaling, creative activities, or hobbies as positive coping mechanisms.
• Promote Self-Care: Educate clients about the importance of self-care, including adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular physical activity. Promote behaviors that can positively impact emotional well-being, such as engaging in hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and seeking out enjoyable activities.
• Provide Anticipatory Guidance: Provide information about potential challenges and milestones throughout the pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum period. Help clients anticipate and prepare for both positive and challenging situations.
• Promote Continuity of Care: Facilitate communication and continuity of care among multidisciplinary health care team members involved in the client’s treatment.
• Foster Hope and Positivity: Share stories of successful outcomes and recovery to provide hope and inspiration. Focus on positive aspects of the pregnancy and the potential for positive outcomes.