Experiences of the encounter with health care when going through miscarriage : A literature study

Background Miscarriage is a common occurrence and a common reason for a person to seek medical care. It is also an experience that is often shocking and traumatic for those affected. Therefore, it is of great importance that nurses have the ability to best guide these persons in a situation characterized by suffering. Research shows that a person-centered approach not only affects how people experience their encounter with health care, but also has a significant impact on their health status after the care encounter. According to Travelbee, the goal of nursing is to help individuals, families or groups prevent and manage illness and suffering. The nurse's responsibility also includes educating and offering strategies to help those who suffer to find meaning in their experiences. Aim The aim was to describe the experience of the encounter with health care for people who have been through a miscarriage. Method A non-systematic literature review was conducted based on 12 scientific articles with a qualitative approach. The databases PubMed, CINAHL and PsycInfo were used to retrieve the articles through search terms in various combinations. The articles have been quality reviewed in accordance with Sophiahemmet University's assessment basis for scientific classification and quality. The results have been analyzed and compiled through an integrated data analysis. Results The results of the study were summarized under three main categories; Experiences of information in the encounter, Experiences of empathy in the encounter and Experiences of the challenges and conditions of communication. The results showed that the encounter with health care was often characterized by confusion, insufficient information and cold attitudes among the healthcare professionals. People affected by miscarriage wished for a more empathetic approach where they were acknowledged in their loss and grief, while receiving sufficient information to understand and cope with their situation. Conclusions For people seeking care in relation to miscarriage, the nurse's response is of great importance. In addition to medical care, they may also need emotional support to cope with the loss. By applying a person-centered approach, nurses can help to reduce suffering and promote the future health of these individuals, even if the care encounter is brief.