Background: In Hamilton County, Ohio, the infant mortality rate for African American infants in 2001 was 19.5 per 1,000 live births compared to 6.4 for white infants (Ohio Department of Health, 2004). Despite efforts to address this disparity, the rate has increased over the past decade (Figure 1). Identification of cultural factors that contribute to this high rate is essential in the development of culturally relevant nursing interventions. The purpose of the study was to explore the cultural context of pregnancy and infant care practices among African American women of childbearing age Methods: This was an ethnographic study using an academic partnership model. Community partners provided guidance in relation to cultural relevance, recruitment procedures and final data analysis. Seven African American women were recruited. The data was analyzed through coding of the transcripts, identification of emerging themes, and triangulation with the participants and the community partners. The women viewed their pregnancy as an interruption in their plans for the future. Most did not recognize their pregnancy until late in the first trimester or the second trimester. They worried that their infant would not be healthy. Stress related to infant care was discussed by all of the women. Mothers and grandmothers were seen as sources of emotional support and physical help. The main barrier to care was transportation. Conclusions: A strong family-based social network was core to the culture of pregnancy and infant care for these women. This provides nurses with an opportunity to develop family centered culturally relevant interventions that build on this strength. However, the fact that pregnancies were unplanned indicates that education efforts related to prevention of infant mortality in this population should be initiated with African American women of childbearing age and not be confined to parental care. Acknowledgements: Funded by the University of Cincinnati Research Council
Session #1182 - Post Partum & Care of Infants
The 29th Annual MNRS Research Conference (April 1-4, 2005)