I chose Maternal and Child Nursing because it’s a field that’s very close to my heart. As a mother to a 9-year-old, I’ve experienced firsthand the joys and challenges of motherhood. That experience deepened my empathy for mothers and their families, making my work feel easy and more meaningful. I understand the struggles of women during pregnancy, the struggles and joys during childbirth, and the dynamics of raising a child.
When I used to worked in the Delivery room and OB ward as a Staff Nurse, I saw how much of a difference nurses can make in the lives of mothers and their babies. I saw how our care helps women feel safe, strong, and supported. I also believe that when we take care of mothers and children, we’re not just helping one person but we are helping families and even whole communities. Women play such an important role in the family, and when they’re well cared for, it creates a positive ripple effect. Even the World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes how improving maternal and child health strengthens families and communities. Women are the heart of the family, and when they are healthy and supported, the whole household thrives.
As a Clinical Instructor, I try to help my students see its deeper value. I share my own stories and experiences to help them understand how meaningful MCN can be. I also let them experience the joy of caring for mothers and babies during clinical duties and engage in real conversations about the mother’s pregnancy story. I also tell my students that MCN actually connects with many other fields in nursing. It deals on the concepts of Medical-Surgical Nursing through the management of conditions like pre-eclampsia, GDM, or postpartum hemorrhage. It also relates to Community Health Nursing through family planning and immunization programs. It even involves aspects of Psychiatric Nursing, especially when dealing with postpartum depression or maternal anxiety. So, it’s a very holistic field.
And on a more personal level, I tell my students that understanding MCN is also understanding a part of our life’s stages. Since many of them will soon become mothers or parents themselves, knowing the concepts of MCN will help them understand their roles better when they have families of their own. I always say, “If you want to make a difference in someone’s life that lasts a lifetime, start with the mothers and the children.” Being part of their journey is both a responsibility and a privilege.