Low income mothers.. what teachings can I provide them with?

[Student2001]

I know that low income mothers have higher risk of unhealthy behaviors.. my patient doesn't though.. higher risk of not taking the standard pregnancy classes (patient didn`t take these classes), having less resources like social support, and coping mechanisms, money, etc. What specifically can I teach her that might decrease some of these risks..?? I don`t want to go out and be the type of person that says hey.. you should take this $50 baby class because it`s good for you.. I also thought of including a low-cost/no cost program that helps with medical costs in this area, so I have one idea.. but what else can I say?? Has anyone had to deal with this?

[bmendi]

I haven't yet begun my nursing program, but I know that in my area WIC offers nutrition and parenting classes to mothers who are in need and have tons of resources in the community. You could gather literature from them, maybe even churches that offer community support and put it out there. Giving them freedom of choice by saying "Hey, if you're interested there is this great --- class that is free/low cost" rahter than implying they need it might be a way to get your point across without being hurtful.

[KrysyRN, BSN]

Yes..pretty much daily at my job. Sometimes things like transportation keeps expectant mothers from their appts. Or finding child care for the mother's other children for her to go to an appt. One thing I would recommend is finding out if transportation is covered by the mother's insurance, if it's an issue. Emphasize the importance of establishing care with a physician and finding out if the physician has an after-hours/weekend/holiday answering service or nurse that can page the physician if necessary.. I'd also check to see if the insurance covers Healthy Pregnancy programs which are offered by the insurance company. Most are over-the-phone programs in which an RN from the insurance company makes monthly (or more frequently) outbound calls to expectant mothers to provide educational info, what to expect, appt reminders, etc. After the birth, the service continues for a few weeks longer. These services are free to the mother. You could incorporate the benefits of prenatal vitamins and breastfeeding for mom and baby.

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