The Positive Pregnancy Project:  A Nursing Connection with Poverty and Pregnancy

            According to Douglas County, Nebraska Health Department, the incidence of infant mortality (death of a child from birth to 12 months) continues to surpass both state and national levels.  In comparison to the Healthy People 2010 objectives of 4.5 deaths per 1000 live births, African Americans in Douglas County, Nebraska experience a disproportionate mortality rate of 15.2 deaths per 1000 live births.  Due to the identified racial disparity in both health care access and pregnancy outcomes, pregnant females residing in Douglas County were identified as the population with specific nursing needs.             With funding support from the March of Dimes, the Positive Pregnancy Project was designed and implemented in 2006 to offer women the opportunity to gain important information regarding their pregnancies and to make meaningful connections with other pregnant women.  The program consists of four sessions facilitated by Creighton University School of Nursing faculty and students.  Each educational session addresses pregnancy related issues such as: the recognition and preventative measures associated with pre-term labor, nutritious foods to enhance pregnancy dietary habits, infant and maternal health benefits related to breastfeeding and stress reduction measures to increase coping skills during pregnancy.  
            The success of the Positive Pregnancy Project has been dependent on numerous collaborative efforts.  Community involvement includes local high schools, churches, non-profit organizations, outreach programs and health care clinics.
In evaluating the Positive Pregnancy Project, participants have indicated that they have learned new information regarding healthy pregnancy behaviors and actions. Group members report that they have benefited from the formation of meaningful relationships with other pregnant women and the students. The purpose of this presentation is to discuss the design, implementation and challenges associated with the development of the Positive Pregnancy Project.