Experience of Public Health Midwives as Nutrition Counselors for Mothers and Care Givers of Children Aged 6-36 Months in Eastern Province of Sri Lanka

Abstract

Knowing about the clients is the central aspect of health care practice. This study aimed to explore the essences of the lived experience of Public Health Midwives (PHMs) as primary care givers to the children and nutrition counselors for mothers and care givers. The methodology of the study was interpretive phenomenology described by Heidegger. There were three Focus Group Discussions (FGD) involving six PHMs in each FGD. Altogether, eighteen PHMs participated in the in-depth experiential conversations using an FGD guide. The discussions were video and audio recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis and interpretation were carried out according to van Manen. Four major themes have emerged through the interpretation process. The themes were: (1) habit of fast food, (2) busy life of mothers and care givers and (3) lack of knowledge among mothers and care givers (4) lack of health care personnel. A sub theme ‘critical financial situation’ was also emerged under the theme busy life of mothers and care givers and another sub theme ‘interference by mother-in-laws in child nutrition’ was emerged from within the major theme, lack of knowledge among mothers and care givers. The study was quite specific to Eastern province of Sri Lanka, where the nutritional status of the children aged 6-36 months was lower than the average level during the study period. The findings of the study will be helpful to the health care personnel in the Eastern province; in planning and providing the optimum care to children aged 6-36 months and nutrition counseling for their mothers and care givers in future.