Women's needs in immediate puerperium in a public maternity in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

Abstract

In order to identify women's needs in their immediate puerperium and to understand their perception of the nursing care they received during this period, the authors developed a descriptive study with qualitative data in a gender perspective. Twenty-five women were interviewed in a public hospital in Salvador, State of Bahia. From the content's analysis, in which a thematic approach was used, emerged two categories: the need for physical care and for a gentle welcome. The study results point out to the need for a change in nursing practices, which should incorporate values and humanitarian initiatives as well as technical procedures.