Discuss role of nurse in Maternal and Child Health Programme.

Nurses play a pivotal role in Maternal and Child Health (MCH) programs, serving as frontline healthcare providers and advocates for the health and well-being of women, infants, and children. Their responsibilities in MCH programs include:

1. Antenatal Care: Nurses provide comprehensive antenatal care, conducting assessments, monitoring maternal health, and educating women about pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care.

2. Intrapartum Care: Nurses assist with labor and delivery, providing emotional support, monitoring maternal and fetal well-being, and ensuring a safe and positive birthing experience.

3. Postnatal Care: Nurses conduct postnatal assessments, provide breastfeeding support, and monitor maternal and newborn health during the critical postpartum period.

4. Newborn Care: Nurses assess newborns for signs of health or complications, provide essential care, such as warmth, feeding support, and infection prevention, and educate mothers about newborn care practices.

5. Child Health Services: Nurses administer vaccinations, conduct growth and development assessments, provide health education, and identify and manage common childhood illnesses.

6. Family Planning: Nurses offer family planning counseling, contraceptive services, and reproductive health education to women and couples, empowering them to make informed choices about their fertility and family planning needs.

7. Health Education and Promotion: Nurses conduct community outreach and health education sessions to raise awareness about maternal and child health issues, promote healthy behaviors, and empower women and families to take charge of their health.

Through their expertise, compassion, and dedication, nurses contribute significantly to the success of MCH programs, helping to improve maternal and child health outcomes, reduce maternal and neonatal mortality, and promote the health and well-being of families and communities.