INTRODUCTION TO MATERNAL CHILD NURSING
Maternity care has changed over the years to increase the emphasis on safety and quality of care.
Many expectant mothers have other health concerns such as obesity, high blood pressure, and even
substance abuse. Their socioeconomic status can have an impact on their pregnancy, along with
their cultural preferences. Abuse and human trafficking may be other risks that these women face
during this period of their lives.
When planning maternal childcare for a client, nurses and providers must take into
consideration the specific needs of the client.
A client should be cared for at a facility that promotes safety and bases their care on the latest
evidence. The client should be involved in their care and discussing options with their provider. In
maternal care, Level III provides the highest level of care, whereas a home birth or birthing center
typically has fewer interventions and less care for lower-risk clients.
Level I, II, III are designations given to inpatient hospital facilities.
Evidence-based
practice
The care is provided based on the latest research and recommendations to
promote safety and positive health outcomes.
Level I facility Low-risk clients, in a hospital setting
LDR room Mom labors, delivers and recovers in the same room, but is transferred to a post
partum unit.
Birth centers Tub births and births may not require as much medical monitoring.
Home births Specialized physicians and midwives deliver within a client’s residence.
Level II facility Typically, care is provided for clients 32 weeks gestation in a hospital setting.
LRDP room Mom labors, delivers, and recovers in the same room and stays for 2-4 days.
Level III facility Highest-risk moms and their infant(s), in a hospital setting