THE ROLE OF PATRONAGE NURSE IN VISITING AND EDUCATING WOMEN WITH POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

Abstract

Postpartum depression is a significant mental health condition that affects a considerable number of women after childbirth. Despite its prevalence and impact on the mother child relationship, emotional wellbeing, and family stability, it often remains underdiagnosed due to stigma, limited awareness, and insufficient training among healthcare professionals. The postpartum period is a critical phase in a woman’s life that requires not only physical but also psychological monitoring. In this context, patronage nurses especially those working in home
visiting patronage services play a crucial role in identifying early signs of postpartum depression and providing appropriate support and education to affected women. This paper explores the role of the patronage nurse in visiting and educating women with postpartum depression, focusing on the importance of early detection, continuous communication, and psychological support. The research aims to examine how prepared community nurses in the city of Kumanovo are to identify postpartum depression and respond effectively. The study is designed as a descriptive cross sectional research, and data will be collected through an anonymous online questionnaire distributed via Google Forms. The questionnaire targets community nurses currently working in the local patronage service. It includes questions related to their experience, knowledge, confidence, and challenges in detecting and addressing postpartum depression among mothers. Although the survey has not yet been conducted, the structure of the research allows for future statistical analysis of the responses to assess the level of professional readiness, recognition patterns, and the practical approaches nurses apply. The study also intends to identify barriers such as time constraints, lack of specific training, or perceived stigma, which may prevent nurses from adequately supporting women during the postpartum period. The theoretical part of the paper offers an overview of nursing In the community, the evolution of patronage care, and communication models in nursing. Special emphasis is placed on understanding postpartum depression, differentiating it from other mood disorders, and recognizing the harmful effects of stigma on help seeking behavior. Furthermore, the paper highlights the importance of educating health professionals to overcome prejudice and improve maternal mental health outcomes. The findings of this research are expected to contribute to the improvement of community based mental health care by encouraging continuous education and the implementation of clear protocols for early detection and intervention. The role of the community nurse is not only medical but also social and psychological, making her an essential figure in the prevention, education, and support of women with postpartum depression.