THE PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL PROBLEMS OF PREGNANT WOMEN WHO HAVE GESTATIONAL DIABETES MELLITUS AND ARE ON PARTIAL BED REST

Abstract

Background: This study examined physical and psychological symptoms of gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosed and bed rested pregnant women and appropriate nursing care for them. Methods: This study was cross-sectional and performed in a university hospital between April 2012 to 2013. The sample of study was consist of 44 gestational diabetes mellitus diagnosed and at least five days bed rested pregnant women. In data collection, Personal Identification Form, Antepartum Symptom Report and Antepartum Hospital Stressors Inventory were used. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis were used in data analyze. Results: The pregnant women’s physical symptoms were determined 93% change in sleeping patterns, 90.9% back pain and 84% fatigue. Their psychological symptoms were found 27.3% difficulty in concentrating, 40.9% mood changes, and 90.9% anxiety. There were a correlation between the subdimensions of Antepartum Hospital Stressors Inventory (Separateness, Environment, Health Condition, Communication with Health Professionals, Self-image, Emotional Condition and Family State) and psychological symptoms, mood change, anxiety and boredom (p<0.05). Between the physical and psychological symptoms of the women could not find any correlation (p>0.05). Conclusion: The study suggests that physical and psychological symptoms of the pregnant women should be well considered in bed rest and appropriate care should provide for them.