Public health nurses' postpartum home visit to mothers who have immigrated to Norway A qualitative interview study of immigrant mothers' experiences

Immigrant mothers can experience intense emotions and uncertainty in their parental role and be particularly vulnerable during the postnatal period. There is limited research on how mothers with an immigrant background experience the public health nurses' first home visit. The study aims to explore the mothers' experiences of the public health nurse's care. The study has a qualitative design. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with six mothers who have immigrated to Norway. The data were analyzed using systematic text condensation. The study shows that mothers with an immigrant background appreciated the public health nurse's professional but friendly approach. The participants' experience of support, recognition and respect was important for building relationships based on trust. At the same time, the mothers felt insecurity regarding the purpose and content of the home visit and highlighted the importance of information and psychosocial support. The theoretical framework for the study is based on theory of intercultural communication, caring relationships, recognition, respect and professional approach. Furthermore, the study explores how public health nurses support immigrant mothers during the home visit. The study creates awareness of immigrant mothers' experience of the postpartum period in a new country and gives valuable insight into how the public health nurse's approach can be tailored to meet their needs.