Acessibilidade / Reportar erro

The effect of educational technology use to guide parturient women's companions: a randomized controlled study

Efecto de la aplicación de la tecnología educacional en la orientación de acompañantes de parturientas: estudio aleatorio controlado

ABSTRACT

Objective:

To evaluate the companion's role during the labor and delivery processes, comparing the influence of the use of an educational technology.

Method:

A single-blind randomized controlled study, in which 73 participants were divided into two groups, 35 in the intervention group and 38 in the comparison group. To analyze the groups the chi-square and the Fisher's exact tests were used in categorical variables and the Student's t-test or the Mann-Whitney test in continuous variables.

Results:

When comparing the experience and the support provided, it was found that there was no difference between the groups in relation to the level of support (p=0.48) and satisfaction with the experience of monitoring the delivery process (p=0.19). However, there was a difference regarding insecurity in monitoring (p=0.00) and concern regarding the parturient health status (p=0.00).

Conclusion:

The companions who received the intervention with educational technology were more likely to use physical, emotional and intermediation support actions. Registry of Brazilian Clinical Trials UTN: U1111-1231-8695.

Labor, Obstetric; Humanizing Delivery; Patient Rights; Obstetric Nursing

RESUMEN

Objetivo:

Evaluar la actuación del acompañante en el proceso del parto, comparando la influencia de la utilización de una tecnología educacional.

Método:

Se trata de un ensayo clínico controlado y aleatorio simple ciego en el que 73 participantes se dividieron en dos grupos, 35 en el grupo de intervención y 38 en el grupo de comparación. Para el análisis de los grupos, se utilizaron las pruebas de chi-cuadrado y Fisher en las variables categóricas y la prueba t de Student o la de Mann-Whitney en las variables continuas.

Resultados:

En la comparación de la vivencia y del apoyo prestado, se comprobó que no había diferencias entre los grupos en cuanto al nivel de apoyo (p=0,48) y a la satisfacción con la experiencia del seguimiento del proceso del parto (p=0,19). Por otro lado, se encontraron diferencias con relación a la inseguridad del seguimiento (p=0,00) y a la preocupación por el estado de salud de la parturienta (p=0,00).

Conclusión:

Los acompañantes que recibieron la intervención con la tecnología educacional estaban más inclinados a valerse de acciones de apoyo físico, emocional y de intermediación. Registro de Ensayos Clínicos Brasileños UTN:U1111-1231-8695.

Trabajo de Parto; Parto Humanizado; Derechos del Paciente; Enfermería Obstétrica

RESUMO

Objetivo:

Avaliar a atuação do acompanhante no processo de parturição, comparando a influência da utilização de uma tecnologia educativa.

Método:

Ensaio clínico randomizado controlado uni-cego, em que 73 participantes foram divididos em dois grupos, sendo 35 no grupo intervenção e 38 no grupo comparação. Para a análise dos grupos, foram utilizados os testes qui-quadrado e Fisher nas variáveis categóricas e o teste t de Student ou Mann-Whitney nas variáveis contínuas.

Resultados:

Na comparação da vivência e do apoio prestado, verificou-se que não houve diferença entre os grupos em relação ao nível de apoio (p=0,48) e à satisfação com a experiência de acompanhar o processo de parto (p=0,19). Contudo, houve diferença quanto à insegurança em acompanhar (p=0,00) e à preocupação em relação ao estado de saúde da parturiente (p= 0,00).

Conclusão:

Os acompanhantes que receberam a intervenção com a tecnologia educativa foram mais propícios à utilização de ações de apoio físico, emocional e de intermediação. Registro de Ensaios Clínicos Brasileiros UTN:U1111-1231-8695.

Trabalho de Parto; Parto Humanizado; Direitos do Paciente; Enfermagem Obstétrica

INTRODUCTION

Childbirth is a physiological process that includes biological, psychological and sociocultural aspects. Therefore, it represents a unique experience of emotional impact for women11 Souza SRRK, Gualda DMR. The experience of women and their coaches with childbirth in a public maternity hospital. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2016;25(1):e4080014. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-0707201600004080014
http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-070720160000...
. In this sense, to attend the parturient woman in all her dimensions, the moment of delivery requires not only physical, but also psychological and behavioral resources, emphasizing, equally, the importance of continuous support, through the presence of a companion22 Brüggemann OM, Koettker JG, Velho MB, Monguilhott JJC, Monticelli M. Satisfaction of companions with the experience of supporting the parturient at a university hospital. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2015;24(3):686-96. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-07072015004220014
http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-070720150042...
.

The support offered during labor and delivery can be divided into four categories: emotional (characterized by the continuous presence and caring attitude, through verbal, positive and tranquilizing expressions, and non-verbal expressions, by the use of distractions); physical (characterized by the use of environmental control measures, by encouraging mobilization, by performing massage, applying compresses, promoting urinary elimination and offering fluids); informational (by providing instructions on breathing, routines, procedures and labor progress) and intermediation (by the parturient assistance in making choices, and communicating the woman's needs to the health team)33 Hodnett ED, Gates S, Hofmeyr GJ, Sakala C, Weston J. Continuous support for women during childbirth. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(7):CD003766. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD003766.pub5
https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD00376...
.

The companion's presence brings security and comfort to the woman, making her more empowered, calm and strengthened to give birth, which causes a shorter time interval between delivery and the beginning of breastfeeding, less risk of evolving to cesarean section, reduced labor time, and greater satisfaction with labor and delivery. In addition to being responsible for the reduction of interventionist procedures and allowing greater coverage of the care provided, as it increases the observation and communication of the parturient needs22 Brüggemann OM, Koettker JG, Velho MB, Monguilhott JJC, Monticelli M. Satisfaction of companions with the experience of supporting the parturient at a university hospital. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2015;24(3):686-96. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-07072015004220014
http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-070720150042...

3 Hodnett ED, Gates S, Hofmeyr GJ, Sakala C, Weston J. Continuous support for women during childbirth. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(7):CD003766. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD003766.pub5
https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD00376...
-44 Monguilhott JJC, Brüggemann OM, Freitas PF, D´Orsi E. Nascer no Brasil: the presence of a companion favors the use of best practices in delivery care in the South region of Brazil. Rev Saúde Pública. 2018;52:1. doi: http://doi.org/10.11606/s1518-8787.2018052006258
http://doi.org/10.11606/s1518-8787.20180...
.

In Brazil, as of April 2005, Law No. 11.108 came into effect, which guarantees the parturient the right to the presence of a companion during labor, delivery and immediate postpartum, within the scope of the Unified Health System (SUS - Sistema Único de Saúde)55 Brasil. Decreto-Lei 11.108, de 07 de abril de 2005. Altera a Lei 8.080, de 19 de setembro de 1990, para garantir às parturientes o direito à presença de acompanhante durante o trabalho de parto, parto e pós parto imediato, no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS [Internet]. Brasília; 2005 [citado 2018 jan. 07]. Disponível em: http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_ato2004-2006/2005/lei/l11108.htm
http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_at...
-66 Brasil. Ministério da Saúde. Portaria n. 2418, de 02 de dezembro de 2005. Regulamenta, em conformidade com o art. 1º da Lei nº 11.108, de 7 de abril de 2005, a presença de acompanhante para mulheres em trabalho de parto, parto e pós-parto imediato nos hospitais públicos e conveniados com o Sistema Único de Saúde [Internet]. Brasília; 2005 [citado 2018 jan. 07]. Disponível em: http://bvsms.saude.gov.br/bvs/saudelegis/gm/2005/prt2418_02_12_2005.html
http://bvsms.saude.gov.br/bvs/saudelegis...
. In June 2011, the Ministry of Health (MS) launched Ordinance 1.459, which establishes, within the scope of SUS, the Rede Cegonha (Stork Network), which, in its Delivery and Birth component, proposes the practice of health care based on scientific evidence and the guarantee of a companion during the parturient welcoming, labor, delivery and immediate postpartum77 Brasil. Ministério da Saúde. Portaria n.1459, de 24 de junho de 2011. Institui no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde SUS - a Rede Cegonha [Internet]. Brasília; 2011 [citado 2018 jan. 07]. Disponível em: http://bvsms.saude.gov.br/bvs/saudelegis/gm/2011/prt1459_24_06_2011.html
http://bvsms.saude.gov.br/bvs/saudelegis...
.

However, "in the institutionalized context of care, the companion's range of activity is still restricted, among other factors, due to the hierarchical relationships between health professional and user, to the technical and instrumental model of care, to the companion's lack of knowledge to play an active role in supporting women during labor"88 Nakano AMS, Silva LA, Beleza ACS, Stefanello J, Gomes FA. O suporte durante o processo de parturição: a visão do acompanhante. Acta Paul Enferm. 2007;20(2):131-7. doi: https://doi.org/10.1590/S0103-21002007000200004
https://doi.org/10.1590/S0103-2100200700...
. Thus, it is necessary to provide conditions for the companion's performance of support activities, including the use of educational strategies that provide greater autonomy to this target audience99 Teles LMR, Américo CF, Oriá MOB, Vasconcelos CTM, Brüggemann OM, Damasceno AKC. Efficacy of an educational manual for childbirth companions: pilot study of a randomized clinical trial. Rev Latino Am Enfermagem. 2018;26:e2996. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.2996
http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.29...
.

Given the above, there is a need to propose educational technologies that contribute to the instrumentalization of those who aspire to participate in childbirth as a companion, since the companion's low empowerment has been highlighted as one of the reasons for them to act as an onlooker at that moment and for health institutions to prevent or minimize their participation. It is assumed that companions with access to educational technologies will be better prepared to provide support to the parturient woman, so that this reflects positively on the companion and parturient satisfaction with the delivery process.

From there, the following question arose: Will the use of an educational technology, aimed at guiding companions of women in labor, provide a difference in the companion's performance during the delivery process? Thus, this study aimed to: evaluate the role of the companion in the parturition process, comparing the influence of the use of an educational technology directed at companions in the delivery room with the standard intervention performed at the service.

METHOD

TYPE OF STUDY

Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) with two arms, performed with 73 participants.

POPULATION

The study was carried out at a reference maternity hospital in obstetrics in the state of Ceará. The study participants were companions of women, in labor or inducing labor, admitted to the institution's obstetric clinic.

In order for the participants to have the same opportunity to receive, or not, the proposed intervention, it was possible to evaluate the impact on the occurrence of the outcome in one group over the other, thus, for this, the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials (CONSORT) was used as methodological framework1010 Schulz KF, Altman DG, Moher D. CONSORT 2010 Statement: updated guidelines for reporting parallel group randomised trials. BMJ. 2010;340:c332. doi: 10.1136/bmj.c332
https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.c332...
for parallel groups.

SELECTION CRITERIA

The inclusion criteria were: healthy volunteers, of both genders, over 18 years old, chosen by the pregnant women to participate in the delivery as companions. The exclusion criteria were: volunteers with cognitive limitations that prevented them from understanding the guidelines addressed; companions of pregnant women with diagnosis of fetal death; companions of women who presented obstetric complications that contraindicated the use of Non-Pharmacological Pain Relief Methods (MNFAD). As criteria for loss of follow-up, the following were defined: being a companion of a pregnant woman who evolved with a complication that contraindicates the use of MNFAD in an unrestricted way; giving up participating in the study; giving up or being unable to monitor the labor and delivery; and having the pregnant woman change companions.

SAMPLE DEFINITION

Intentional sampling was used, as the sample corresponded to all eligible companions, who met the inclusion criteria and completed the follow-up. Participants were recruited by the researcher, randomized and allocated to the Intervention Group (IG) or Control Group (CG), based on a sequence of random numbers generated on the website www.randomizer.org. At the end, 73 companions were obtained, 35 in the IG and 38 in the CG. It is noteworthy that, for the participants, the study was blind. Figure 1 shows the flow of participants at each stage of the study.

Figure 1
Representative diagram of the flow of participants in each stage of the study as stated CONSORT 2010 – Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, 2017.

The intervention group was composed of the companions who received educational activity through the handbook "Preparing to accompany childbirth: what is important to know?"1111 Teles LMR, Oliveira AS, Campos FC, Lima TM, Costa CC, Gomes LFS, et al. Development and validating an educational booklet for childbirth companions. Rev Esc Enferm USP. 2014;48(6):977-84. doi: https://doi.org/10.1590/S0080-623420140000700003
https://doi.org/10.1590/S0080-6234201400...
, which was built and validated to promote the instruction of companions who intend to support the parturient woman and witness the delivery. The instrument was previously used in a randomized controlled trial at the primary care level99 Teles LMR, Américo CF, Oriá MOB, Vasconcelos CTM, Brüggemann OM, Damasceno AKC. Efficacy of an educational manual for childbirth companions: pilot study of a randomized clinical trial. Rev Latino Am Enfermagem. 2018;26:e2996. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.2996
http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.29...
. However, there is scarcity of experimental studies that assess the impact of educational interventions on tertiary care. Thus, the present study observed the effect of using this technology on the following outcome: companion's performance during the parturition process. The comparison group was composed of eligible subjects, who received the institution's standard guidelines, these were carried out verbally and individually, addressing norms and routines, without detailing the actions at the time of delivery.

DATA COLLECTION

Data collection occurred four times a week, at night, between July and October 2017, two instruments were used. The first instrument contained 17 questions, 10 for the companions' characterization and seven about previous knowledge about support techniques during childbirth. This instrument was applied at the obstetric clinic, moments before the pregnant woman and her companion were sent to the delivery room. The second instrument consisted of 08 (eight) questions about experiences and support provided by the companion, being applied during the mediate puerperium period in the rooming-in sector. These two instruments were developed based on previous studies99 Teles LMR, Américo CF, Oriá MOB, Vasconcelos CTM, Brüggemann OM, Damasceno AKC. Efficacy of an educational manual for childbirth companions: pilot study of a randomized clinical trial. Rev Latino Am Enfermagem. 2018;26:e2996. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.2996
http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.29...
,1212 Oliveira AS, Damasceno AKC, Moraes JL, Moreira KAP, Teles LMR, Gomes LFS. Technology used by companions in labor and chilbirth: a descriptive study. Online Braz J Nurs. 2014;13(1):36-45. doi: https://doi.org/10.5935/1676-4285.20144254
https://doi.org/10.5935/1676-4285.201442...
and evaluated by two obstetrics researchers.

Data collection took place in three stages:

Stage I: All participants eligible for the study were interviewed using the first instrument, to identify the sociodemographic profile and previous knowledge about support techniques for the parturient.

Stage II: The educational handbook for the IG was presented and read, with the possibility of interruption in case of doubts or in the event that the companions made any comments. Each intervention lasted, on average, fifteen minutes and took place at the bedside of the parturient, individually with each companion.

The educational handbook used was validated1111 Teles LMR, Oliveira AS, Campos FC, Lima TM, Costa CC, Gomes LFS, et al. Development and validating an educational booklet for childbirth companions. Rev Esc Enferm USP. 2014;48(6):977-84. doi: https://doi.org/10.1590/S0080-623420140000700003
https://doi.org/10.1590/S0080-6234201400...
, in appearance and content, with consultation with specialists in the area of ​​interest, consultation with the target audience and evaluation of the Flesch-Kincaid Index (ILF). The material was obtained in full by contact and authorization by the author responsible for its construction and validation. The topics covered in the intervention were: A few days before delivery; Knowing the woman's body; Signs and symptoms of labor; Professionals who can work in the delivery room; Labor pain relief techniques; How normal childbirth happens; The woman and companion's rights and duties; and Notions of Citizenship.

Stage III: Upon contact in the institution's rooming-in accommodation, it was verified whether the participants contemplated the follow-up. If so, the researcher applied the second instrument (described previously).

DATA MANAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS

The information was stored in a data base and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), version 20.0. To compare the groups the chi-square and the Fisher's exact tests (categorical variables) and the Student's t-test or the Mann-Whitney test (continuous variables) were used. The 95% confidence interval and the critical alpha of 0.05 were used to determine the level of significance.

ETHICAL ASPECTS

The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee under protocol 2.144.969 of 2017 and registered in the Brazilian Clinical Trials Registry database (primary identifier: RBR-3vnwnq). The study participants signed an Informed Consent Form (ICF), in two copies, ensuring the anonymity of the participants, according to the rules of Resolution No. 466/12, of the National Health Council1313 Brasil. Ministério da Saúde; Conselho Nacional de Saúde. Resolução n. 466, de 12 de dezembro 2012. Dispõe sobre diretrizes e normas regulamentadoras de pesquisas envolvendo seres humanos [Internet]. Brasília; 2012 [citado 2018 jan. 07]. Disponível em: http://conselho.saude.gov.br/resolucoes/2012/reso466.pdf
http://conselho.saude.gov.br/resolucoes/...
.

RESULTS

A total of 73 companions participated in the study, 35 in the IG and 38 in the CG. In the participants' characterization, sociodemographic aspects and the companions' previous knowledge about actions to support the parturient woman and their access to educational activities during the prenatal care (PN) were investigated.

The data in Table 1 show the comparison between the groups and it is observed that most were women, with an average age of 33.9 years and low level of education. In both groups, companions from Fortaleza (CG = 57.9% / IG = 51.4%), and in stable marital status (CG: 73.7% / IG: 71.4%) prevailed.

Table 1
Characterization of the sample regarding the sociodemographic characteristics of the companions present from July to October 2017 - Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, 2017.

Regarding the degree of kinship, when the general picture is observed, the presence of a companion (n=26 / 35.6%) is generally of mothers (n=19/26.0%). It is also evident the presence of other family members, such as aunts and sisters, in addition to the presence of friends and neighbors, classified as others in Table 1. The divergence between the groups regarding level of education stands out as a limiting factor in the study (p=0.018), degree of kinship (p=0.03) and gender (p=0.04).

There was a limited number of companions who participated in educational activities to prepare for childbirth, despite approximately half the population of the CG (n=21/55.3%) and the IG (n=19/54.3%) having participated in medical appointments during prenatal care, as shown in Table 2, emphasizing the importance of this information being passed on, also, in the maternity ward.

Table 2
Sample's characterization according to the assessment of the companion's prior knowledge about the types of support for the parturient woman - Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, 2017.

With regard to knowledge about the right to accompany the pregnant woman during labor, more than half of the companions in the CG (n = 24 / 63.2%) and the IG (n = 19 / 54.3%) had already heard about it. However, when asked about the moment they received the information, the majority informed that it was during the institution's emergency care and that they were unaware that it was a specific law.

The comparison between the CG and IG (Figure 2) shows that there was no statistically significant difference in relation to the level of support offered to the parturient (p = 0.48) and satisfaction with childbirth (p = 0.19). However, it is evident that there was a statistically significant difference in the evaluation of the companions regarding the insecurity in accompanying (p = 0.00) and concern about the parturient health status (p = 0.00). The percentage of companions in the CG who reported feeling very insecure and concerned about the woman's health condition was 18 (47.4%) and 21 (55.3%), respectively.

Figure 2
Sample distribution according to variables associated with the companion’s level of support, satisfaction, worry and insecurity – Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, 2017.

It is observed, through Table 3, that several companions used some support technique for the parturient, being more present the physical and emotional support techniques. In the comparison between the groups, it became evident that IG companions performed more physical, emotional and intermediation actions.

Table 3
Sample distribution according to the parturient support techniques used by the companion - Fortaleza, CE, Brazil, 2017.

DISCUSSION

The results of this study show that the educational intervention through the handbook proved to be effective to instruct the companion to carry out actions to support the parturient, above all, physical support actions, and that it positively interfered in the companions' assurance with the experience of accompanying and experiencing the delivery.

The companions who participated in the study have similar characteristics to other studies, with regard to age and years of study99 Teles LMR, Américo CF, Oriá MOB, Vasconcelos CTM, Brüggemann OM, Damasceno AKC. Efficacy of an educational manual for childbirth companions: pilot study of a randomized clinical trial. Rev Latino Am Enfermagem. 2018;26:e2996. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.2996
http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.29...
,1212 Oliveira AS, Damasceno AKC, Moraes JL, Moreira KAP, Teles LMR, Gomes LFS. Technology used by companions in labor and chilbirth: a descriptive study. Online Braz J Nurs. 2014;13(1):36-45. doi: https://doi.org/10.5935/1676-4285.20144254
https://doi.org/10.5935/1676-4285.201442...
,1414 Batista BD, Bruggemann OM, Junges CF, Velho MB, Costa R. Fatores associados à satisfação do acompanhante com o cuidado prestado à parturiente. Cogitare Enferm. 2017;(22)3:e51355. doi: http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355
http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355...
. In addition, the general picture of the degree of kinship variable is compatible with that found in Be Born in Brazil Survey (Pesquisa Nascer no Brasil)44 Monguilhott JJC, Brüggemann OM, Freitas PF, D´Orsi E. Nascer no Brasil: the presence of a companion favors the use of best practices in delivery care in the South region of Brazil. Rev Saúde Pública. 2018;52:1. doi: http://doi.org/10.11606/s1518-8787.2018052006258
http://doi.org/10.11606/s1518-8787.20180...
,1515 Diniz CSG, D'Orsi E, Domingues RMSM, Torres JA, Dias MAB, Schneck CA, et al. Implementação da presença de acompanhantes durante a internação para o parto: dados da pesquisa nacional Nascer no Brasil. Cad Saúde Pública. 2014;30 Suppl 1:S140-53. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/0102-311X00127013
http://doi.org/10.1590/0102-311X00127013...
, which demonstrates the proximity of the studied sample to the Brazilian reality.

The sample reveals that most of the companions were the parturient' own partners, a data similar to that of other analyzes carried out in Brazil1414 Batista BD, Bruggemann OM, Junges CF, Velho MB, Costa R. Fatores associados à satisfação do acompanhante com o cuidado prestado à parturiente. Cogitare Enferm. 2017;(22)3:e51355. doi: http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355
http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355...
. However, there is a great expressiveness of women, a fact explained by the presence of mothers and other family members such as aunts and sisters, in addition to the presence of people of trust, such as friends and neighbors. It is evident that, "more and more, the free choice of women for a companion is being respected and the insertion of the father figure has been frequent. This fact contributes to the strengthening of bonds between father and child and, often, between the couple themselves, forming the mother-father-child triad"1414 Batista BD, Bruggemann OM, Junges CF, Velho MB, Costa R. Fatores associados à satisfação do acompanhante com o cuidado prestado à parturiente. Cogitare Enferm. 2017;(22)3:e51355. doi: http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355
http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355...
.

As a limiting factor in the study, the divergence between the groups in relation to level of education stands out, which may have interfered in the understanding during the educational intervention. However, the choice of an easy-to-understand instrument and the use of an accessible language are emphasized, to minimize limitations of understanding. In a previous study1414 Batista BD, Bruggemann OM, Junges CF, Velho MB, Costa R. Fatores associados à satisfação do acompanhante com o cuidado prestado à parturiente. Cogitare Enferm. 2017;(22)3:e51355. doi: http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355
http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355...
, it was shown that there was no association between age, education, bond with the woman and previous experiences as a companion and satisfaction with the care provided to the woman.

Regarding the right to accompany the pregnant woman, although the Law of the Companion has existed for more than a decade, most of the interviewees reported not having received guidance on the subject, as observed in other studies1212 Oliveira AS, Damasceno AKC, Moraes JL, Moreira KAP, Teles LMR, Gomes LFS. Technology used by companions in labor and chilbirth: a descriptive study. Online Braz J Nurs. 2014;13(1):36-45. doi: https://doi.org/10.5935/1676-4285.20144254
https://doi.org/10.5935/1676-4285.201442...
,1414 Batista BD, Bruggemann OM, Junges CF, Velho MB, Costa R. Fatores associados à satisfação do acompanhante com o cuidado prestado à parturiente. Cogitare Enferm. 2017;(22)3:e51355. doi: http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355
http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355...
,1616 Frutuoso LD, Brüggemann OM. Conhecimento sobre a Lei 11.108/2005 e a experiência dos acompanhantes junto à mulher no Centro Obstétrico. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2013;22(4):909-17. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/S0104-07072013000400006
http://doi.org/10.1590/S0104-07072013000...
-1717 Rodrigues DP, Alves VH, Penna LHG, Pereira AV, Branco MBLR, Souza RMP. Non-compliance with the companion law as an aggravation to obstetric health. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2017;26(3):e5570015. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/0104-07072017005570015
http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/0104-070720170...
. This may be related to a prenatal care directed to the clinical, not emphasizing the tenth step for prenatal quality care - to guide the woman on her rights guaranteed by law. Not having clarification about the law is something of concern, however, it does not seem to hinder the companion's participation in the studied maternity hospital1414 Batista BD, Bruggemann OM, Junges CF, Velho MB, Costa R. Fatores associados à satisfação do acompanhante com o cuidado prestado à parturiente. Cogitare Enferm. 2017;(22)3:e51355. doi: http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355
http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355...
.

In this research, most companions attended the prenatal appointments. This adherence to prenatal care is different from most studies that highlight low or no participation in appointments1818 Kaye DK, Kakaire O, Nakimuli A, Osinde MO, Mbalinda SN, Kakande N. Male involvement during pregnancy and childbirth: men's perceptions, practices and experiences during the care for women who developed childbirth complications in Mulago Hospital, Uganda. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2014;14:54. doi: 10.1186/1471-2393-14-54
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2393-14-54...
. With regard to participation in educational activities for guidance on childbirth, there was a limited number of companions who performed, emphasizing the importance of this information being passed on in the maternity ward, as the lack of knowledge is still one of the main barriers to the use of non-pharmacological methods for pain relief among companions99 Teles LMR, Américo CF, Oriá MOB, Vasconcelos CTM, Brüggemann OM, Damasceno AKC. Efficacy of an educational manual for childbirth companions: pilot study of a randomized clinical trial. Rev Latino Am Enfermagem. 2018;26:e2996. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.2996
http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.29...
,1414 Batista BD, Bruggemann OM, Junges CF, Velho MB, Costa R. Fatores associados à satisfação do acompanhante com o cuidado prestado à parturiente. Cogitare Enferm. 2017;(22)3:e51355. doi: http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355
http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355...
,1818 Kaye DK, Kakaire O, Nakimuli A, Osinde MO, Mbalinda SN, Kakande N. Male involvement during pregnancy and childbirth: men's perceptions, practices and experiences during the care for women who developed childbirth complications in Mulago Hospital, Uganda. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2014;14:54. doi: 10.1186/1471-2393-14-54
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2393-14-54...
.

Instrumentalization training for labor and delivery brings greater empowerment to the companion, who will know how to act and will be able to use MNFAD. In addition, they bring positive points to the woman, as she will receive support based on scientific evidence, as well as for the multiprofessional team, who will find a partner in the companion, culminating in a more satisfactory delivery experience for all involved1919 Holanda SM, Castro RCMB, Aquin PS, Pinheiro AKB, Lopes LG, Martins ES. Influência da participação do companheiro no pré-natal: satisfação de primíparas quanto ao apoio no parto. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2018;27(2):e3800016. doi: https://doi.org/10.1590/0104-070720180003800016
https://doi.org/10.1590/0104-07072018000...
.

The findings presented herein reveal that there was no statistically significant difference in relation to the level of support offered to the parturient (p=0.48) and satisfaction with childbirth (p=0.19). It is worth mentioning that "inserting the companion in the prenatal or providing his/her participation in some type of training or prior awareness are not prerequisites for him/her to assume his/her role, since these aspects were not associated with the companion's satisfaction in any of the domains analyzed"22 Brüggemann OM, Koettker JG, Velho MB, Monguilhott JJC, Monticelli M. Satisfaction of companions with the experience of supporting the parturient at a university hospital. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2015;24(3):686-96. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-07072015004220014
http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-070720150042...
.

However, it is noteworthy that there was a statistically significant difference in the evaluation of the companions regarding the insecurity in accompanying (p=0.00) and the concern regarding the parturient health status (p=0.00). This fact may be related to the lack of knowledge about the labor and delivery process, to the difficulty in dealing with the woman's pain during the expulsion period, in addition to the uncertainty about the outcome of the delivery1616 Frutuoso LD, Brüggemann OM. Conhecimento sobre a Lei 11.108/2005 e a experiência dos acompanhantes junto à mulher no Centro Obstétrico. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2013;22(4):909-17. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/S0104-07072013000400006
http://doi.org/10.1590/S0104-07072013000...
.

It is emphasized that the companion's empowerment can interfere with his/her posture. Companions who participated in the childbirth preparation program had a lower risk of experiencing the birth event in a frightening way and of feeling unprepared for birth2020 Gonçalves AC, Rocha CM, Gouveia HG, Armellini CJ, Moretto VL, Moraes BA. O acompanhante no centro obstétrico de um hospital universitário do sul do Brasil. Rev Gaúcha Enferm. 2015;36(n.esp):159-67. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1983-1447.2015.esp.57289
http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1983-1447.2015...
. During the intervention, it was observed that the companions had high expectations and curiosity related to their role during labor. The findings presented herein reveal that almost all companions used some support technique for the parturient, with physical and emotional support techniques being more frequent. In the comparison of the groups, it was observed that IG companions performed a greater variety of support actions for the parturient, having a higher probability of performing physical support techniques.

The educational intervention through the handbook enabled a greater range of support actions, thus, the companion could feel more prepared to provide the support perceived as useful in each moment of the labor. It is noteworthy that the educational handbook subsidizes the companion's knowledge regarding the various support actions available, however, these actions must be performed according to the needs of the parturient.

This denotes the importance of educational activities for the companion's empowerment and, consequently, for their role in providing support to the parturient woman, providing a good relationship with the team, and reducing the anxiety caused by hospitalization. This fact is corroborated by previous research99 Teles LMR, Américo CF, Oriá MOB, Vasconcelos CTM, Brüggemann OM, Damasceno AKC. Efficacy of an educational manual for childbirth companions: pilot study of a randomized clinical trial. Rev Latino Am Enfermagem. 2018;26:e2996. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.2996
http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.29...
that carried out a pilot study of a randomized controlled trial, in order to identify the effectiveness of an educational handbook for birth companions.

The main limitations of the study are the small sample size and the potential courtesy bias, since the interviews were conducted in a playful moment. At the time, responses may be biased, due to the simple fact that they were allowed to participate in the delivery, as well as the possible fear that expressing negative opinions could cause damage in the care provided to the parturient. Also, there was divergence between the groups in relation to education, which may have affected the result of the study.

CONCLUSION

The findings indicate that the educational intervention through the handbook was effective in instructing the companion to carry out actions to support women, with the companions of the IG performing a greater number and a greater variety of actions and demonstrating less insecurity in the delivery room.

The study exposes the companion's performance in the care context, as well as his/her actions as a support provider for the woman. Most research on this practice is focused only on women and professionals. The relevance of carrying out educational activities to guide childbirth is emphasized at all levels of care, including tertiary care.

More specific future studies are needed. It is suggested to carry out studies that evaluate the effectiveness of educational interventions, with the companion, on maternal and neonatal outcomes.

REFERENCES

  • 1
    Souza SRRK, Gualda DMR. The experience of women and their coaches with childbirth in a public maternity hospital. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2016;25(1):e4080014. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-0707201600004080014
    » http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-0707201600004080014
  • 2
    Brüggemann OM, Koettker JG, Velho MB, Monguilhott JJC, Monticelli M. Satisfaction of companions with the experience of supporting the parturient at a university hospital. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2015;24(3):686-96. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-07072015004220014
    » http://doi.org/10.1590/0104-07072015004220014
  • 3
    Hodnett ED, Gates S, Hofmeyr GJ, Sakala C, Weston J. Continuous support for women during childbirth. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;(7):CD003766. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD003766.pub5
    » https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD003766.pub5
  • 4
    Monguilhott JJC, Brüggemann OM, Freitas PF, D´Orsi E. Nascer no Brasil: the presence of a companion favors the use of best practices in delivery care in the South region of Brazil. Rev Saúde Pública. 2018;52:1. doi: http://doi.org/10.11606/s1518-8787.2018052006258
    » http://doi.org/10.11606/s1518-8787.2018052006258
  • 5
    Brasil. Decreto-Lei 11.108, de 07 de abril de 2005. Altera a Lei 8.080, de 19 de setembro de 1990, para garantir às parturientes o direito à presença de acompanhante durante o trabalho de parto, parto e pós parto imediato, no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde - SUS [Internet]. Brasília; 2005 [citado 2018 jan. 07]. Disponível em: http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_ato2004-2006/2005/lei/l11108.htm
    » http://www.planalto.gov.br/ccivil_03/_ato2004-2006/2005/lei/l11108.htm
  • 6
    Brasil. Ministério da Saúde. Portaria n. 2418, de 02 de dezembro de 2005. Regulamenta, em conformidade com o art. 1º da Lei nº 11.108, de 7 de abril de 2005, a presença de acompanhante para mulheres em trabalho de parto, parto e pós-parto imediato nos hospitais públicos e conveniados com o Sistema Único de Saúde [Internet]. Brasília; 2005 [citado 2018 jan. 07]. Disponível em: http://bvsms.saude.gov.br/bvs/saudelegis/gm/2005/prt2418_02_12_2005.html
    » http://bvsms.saude.gov.br/bvs/saudelegis/gm/2005/prt2418_02_12_2005.html
  • 7
    Brasil. Ministério da Saúde. Portaria n.1459, de 24 de junho de 2011. Institui no âmbito do Sistema Único de Saúde SUS - a Rede Cegonha [Internet]. Brasília; 2011 [citado 2018 jan. 07]. Disponível em: http://bvsms.saude.gov.br/bvs/saudelegis/gm/2011/prt1459_24_06_2011.html
    » http://bvsms.saude.gov.br/bvs/saudelegis/gm/2011/prt1459_24_06_2011.html
  • 8
    Nakano AMS, Silva LA, Beleza ACS, Stefanello J, Gomes FA. O suporte durante o processo de parturição: a visão do acompanhante. Acta Paul Enferm. 2007;20(2):131-7. doi: https://doi.org/10.1590/S0103-21002007000200004
    » https://doi.org/10.1590/S0103-21002007000200004
  • 9
    Teles LMR, Américo CF, Oriá MOB, Vasconcelos CTM, Brüggemann OM, Damasceno AKC. Efficacy of an educational manual for childbirth companions: pilot study of a randomized clinical trial. Rev Latino Am Enfermagem. 2018;26:e2996. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.2996
    » http://doi.org/10.1590/1518-8345.2277.2996
  • 10
    Schulz KF, Altman DG, Moher D. CONSORT 2010 Statement: updated guidelines for reporting parallel group randomised trials. BMJ. 2010;340:c332. doi: 10.1136/bmj.c332
    » https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.c332
  • 11
    Teles LMR, Oliveira AS, Campos FC, Lima TM, Costa CC, Gomes LFS, et al. Development and validating an educational booklet for childbirth companions. Rev Esc Enferm USP. 2014;48(6):977-84. doi: https://doi.org/10.1590/S0080-623420140000700003
    » https://doi.org/10.1590/S0080-623420140000700003
  • 12
    Oliveira AS, Damasceno AKC, Moraes JL, Moreira KAP, Teles LMR, Gomes LFS. Technology used by companions in labor and chilbirth: a descriptive study. Online Braz J Nurs. 2014;13(1):36-45. doi: https://doi.org/10.5935/1676-4285.20144254
    » https://doi.org/10.5935/1676-4285.20144254
  • 13
    Brasil. Ministério da Saúde; Conselho Nacional de Saúde. Resolução n. 466, de 12 de dezembro 2012. Dispõe sobre diretrizes e normas regulamentadoras de pesquisas envolvendo seres humanos [Internet]. Brasília; 2012 [citado 2018 jan. 07]. Disponível em: http://conselho.saude.gov.br/resolucoes/2012/reso466.pdf
    » http://conselho.saude.gov.br/resolucoes/2012/reso466.pdf
  • 14
    Batista BD, Bruggemann OM, Junges CF, Velho MB, Costa R. Fatores associados à satisfação do acompanhante com o cuidado prestado à parturiente. Cogitare Enferm. 2017;(22)3:e51355. doi: http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355
    » http://doi.org/10.5380/ce.v22i3.51355
  • 15
    Diniz CSG, D'Orsi E, Domingues RMSM, Torres JA, Dias MAB, Schneck CA, et al. Implementação da presença de acompanhantes durante a internação para o parto: dados da pesquisa nacional Nascer no Brasil. Cad Saúde Pública. 2014;30 Suppl 1:S140-53. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/0102-311X00127013
    » http://doi.org/10.1590/0102-311X00127013
  • 16
    Frutuoso LD, Brüggemann OM. Conhecimento sobre a Lei 11.108/2005 e a experiência dos acompanhantes junto à mulher no Centro Obstétrico. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2013;22(4):909-17. doi: http://doi.org/10.1590/S0104-07072013000400006
    » http://doi.org/10.1590/S0104-07072013000400006
  • 17
    Rodrigues DP, Alves VH, Penna LHG, Pereira AV, Branco MBLR, Souza RMP. Non-compliance with the companion law as an aggravation to obstetric health. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2017;26(3):e5570015. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/0104-07072017005570015
    » http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/0104-07072017005570015
  • 18
    Kaye DK, Kakaire O, Nakimuli A, Osinde MO, Mbalinda SN, Kakande N. Male involvement during pregnancy and childbirth: men's perceptions, practices and experiences during the care for women who developed childbirth complications in Mulago Hospital, Uganda. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth. 2014;14:54. doi: 10.1186/1471-2393-14-54
    » https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2393-14-54
  • 19
    Holanda SM, Castro RCMB, Aquin PS, Pinheiro AKB, Lopes LG, Martins ES. Influência da participação do companheiro no pré-natal: satisfação de primíparas quanto ao apoio no parto. Texto Contexto Enferm. 2018;27(2):e3800016. doi: https://doi.org/10.1590/0104-070720180003800016
    » https://doi.org/10.1590/0104-070720180003800016
  • 20
    Gonçalves AC, Rocha CM, Gouveia HG, Armellini CJ, Moretto VL, Moraes BA. O acompanhante no centro obstétrico de um hospital universitário do sul do Brasil. Rev Gaúcha Enferm. 2015;36(n.esp):159-67. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1983-1447.2015.esp.57289
    » http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1983-1447.2015.esp.57289

Publication Dates

  • Publication in this collection
    16 Apr 2021
  • Date of issue
    2021

History

  • Received
    08 Aug 2019
  • Accepted
    15 May 2020
Universidade de São Paulo, Escola de Enfermagem Av. Dr. Enéas de Carvalho Aguiar, 419 , 05403-000 São Paulo - SP/ Brasil, Tel./Fax: (55 11) 3061-7553, - São Paulo - SP - Brazil
E-mail: reeusp@usp.br