Perceptions of discharge readiness among primiparas based on the King's theory of goal attainment: a qualitative study

Abstract

Objective: To analyze primiparas' perceived experiences and unmet nursing needs regarding discharge readiness, using the King's Theory of Goal Attainment, to optimize clinical discharge management. Methods: Using the phenomenological method in qualitative research, through purposive sampling, 18 primiparas from a tertiary hospital in Sichuan Province were subjected to face-to-face semi-structured in-depth interviews. NVivo 15.0 software was used to manage the interview data, and the Colaizzi phenomenological 7-step analysis method was used to analyze the data. Results: A total of 5 main themes and 12 sub-themes have been identified, including complex psychology at discharge (positive expectations, full of worries), promoting factors of discharge preparation (personal proactive coping, the degree of family support was high), hindering factors of discharge preparation (the self-care knowledge was weak, insufficient self-care skills, difficulties in parenting), nursing service needs (maternal and infant knowledge and nursing needs, continuing nursing knowledge needs), and interactive participation (the implementation of interactive assessments is inadequate, insufficient participation, expect to participate in decision-making). Conclusion: Primiparas' discharge preparation needs remain unmet. Medical staff should address various factors affecting discharge readiness, enhance the interaction between nurses and patients, and increase the initiative of primiparas in self management, to help them adapt to life after discharge and achieve maternal and infant health goals.