Development of self-care guidelines for pregnant women with anemia : Application of Orem's nursing theory
Keywords:
Orem's Self-Care Theory, Anemia in Pregnancy, Supportive Nursing, Self-CareAbstract
This survey research by qualitative analysis aimed to develop self-care guidelines for pregnant women with anemia by applying Orem's Self-Care Deficit Nursing Theory at a government hospital in the metropolitan area. The study included 45 pregnant women with anemia (hemoglobin < 11.0 g/dL) from March to May 2025. Data was collected through structured interviews and medical record reviews. The results revealed that participants had self-care deficits in three main areas (1) lack of knowledge and skills in selecting iron-rich foods, (2) lack of motivation to change health behaviors, and (3) environmental and social barriers. When provided with supportive-educative nursing interventions through education, demonstration, and continuous follow-up, pregnant women successfully developed their self-care agency. This led to improved hemoglobin levels and more appropriate health behaviors.
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