Perceptions from the delivering women's chosen companion concerning the obstetrics ward organization and ambience

Abstract

Objective: Descriptive research, with a qualitative approach, aiming to know the companion's perceptions about the organization and ambience of the obstetrical center, and to identify which aspects facilitate and make difficult their stay. Method: Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with 16 companions chosen by delivering women from November 2010 to May 2011, in a public maternity in Santa Catarina, Brazil. Results: Using Collective Subject Discourse in analyzing the data, the following four themes emerged: orientation about norms and routines supplied to the companion before entering the obstetrics ward; obstetrics ward ambience; aspects which facilitate staying; and difficulties surrounding staying in the obstetrics ward. Conclusion: although some difficulties were faced, especially resulting from the lack of orientation and inappropriate accommodation of the companion, they were not obstacles to their permanence by the delivering woman's side.