Abstract
To date, the provision of nuchal translucency (NT) screening for pregnant women has been regionally selective and, although medical research has continued to explore methods of improving specificity and sensitivity of such programmes, relatively little work has focused on women's experiences of first trimester nuchal translucency screening. The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate pregnant women's experiences of routinely offered NT scans. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 10 women, the descriptive data of which was analysed using content analysis. Data revealed women's understanding of NT screening varied considerably. Women's experiences of the service indicated differences in access to resources that impacted on opportunities to discuss NT screening options and levels of satisfaction. Moreover, perceptions of choice revealed differences in opinion as to whether consent had been obtained. In view of current debate surrounding evidence-based practice, clinical governance and health improvement initiatives, it is concluded that the midwifery profession needs to critically examine routine NT screening programmes in relation to issues of choice, control, information exchange and multidisciplinary coordination of maternity care.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
