Women’s Experiences of Communication With Medical Staff Before and After Emergency Caesarean Bir

Limited Communication and Its Psychological Impact in Emergency Caesarean Birth: A Qualitative Perspective

• The research investigates patient–healthcare provider communication surrounding emergency caesarean births at the University Teaching Hospitals, Women and Newborn Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia.
• A qualitative phenomenological approach was used to characterize the lived experiences of women who underwent this procedure.
• Data were gathered from 30 women selected purposively from hospital wards, with analysis conducted via inductive thematic methods (transcription, iterative reading, coding, and theme development).

• Four central themes emerged: modes of communication, the communication experience surrounding the emergency procedure, consequences of inadequate communication and information, and barriers to effective communication.
• Reported communication was described as inadequate and often untimely, with insufficient detail provided about the surgical procedure.
• The use of medical jargon was noted as a hindrance, alongside misconceptions about caesarean birth and the presence of pain during care, all contributing to perceived communication failures.

• Inadequate communication correlated with negative emotional responses, including fear, anger, anxiety, and a sense of worthlessness or helplessness among the women.
• These psychosocial consequences reflect broader risks associated with obstetric care experiences and align with concerns about mistreatment or disrespect in maternity services.

• Structural and systemic drivers were identified, including workload pressures, staff shortages, and social power dynamics within the hospital setting.
• These factors collectively shape the likelihood and quality of patient–provider interactions during and after emergency caesarean births.

• The study underscores the need for interventions to enhance respectful maternity care through patient-centered communication.
• Suggested approaches include training focused on plain language use, reducing reliance on medical jargon, and addressing structural barriers that impede effective dialogue.
• The authors advocate for systemic changes at the hospital to support clearer, more timely, and more compassionate information sharing.

• The summary notes a qualitative, single-site design; details beyond the four themes, patient demographics, and precise methodological steps are not provided in the available content.