A model of home care for high-risk childbearing families - Women with diabetes in pregnancy

With a national trend toward decreased hospitalizations for highrisk childbearing women, home care and follow-up services have gained increased importance. The Quality-Cost Model of Nurse Specialist Transitional Follow Up Care is presented as a method to provide home care for high-risk pregnant women, specifically those whose pregnancies are complicated by diabetes mellitus. The model offers opportunities for intensive education, assessment, intervention, and support throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period. In addition, this model can potentially decrease the burden of care on the woman and her family by providing a comprehensive program of home care, follow up, support, and education.