Parent experience
Caring for a newborn can be a daunting prospect.
Parents will rely heavily on advice given to them by
health professionals, especially midwives and health
visitors. The role of the midwife is to support the
woman and her family through the childbearing
process (Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC),
2012). The role of the health visitor is to promote health
in the whole community, particularly with families
who have children under 5 years. The International
Confederation of Midwives (ICM) (2011) states that
the midwife is accountable for the care and advice
provided to the woman, the newborn and the infant.
The care that midwives and health visitors provide
should take into account the mother, and her family
cultures, beliefs and values. Health professionals
should provide evidence-based information in a
format that is acceptable to parents. They should
be non-judgmental and supportive to parents when
their baby is suffering with a skin problem.
Parents may experience guilt when their baby
develops a skin problem and perceive themselves
as bad parents. Babies cry for numerous reasons,
which can be perplexing to new parents. If parents
perceive that their baby is in pain because of nappy
rash, it can be even more distressing for them
(Furber et al, 2012). An empathic approach by
health professionals is essential, and in situations
such as this, it is important that midwives, health
visitors and other health professionals that are
involved provide support and encouragement.