Caring for families with complex needs during the perinatal period: Knowledge, skills and attributes of nurses practising within a primary health care framework

New evidence on the importance of the early years on a child’s life trajectory led to sweeping reforms in maternal and child care and in strategic responses to prevent child maltreatment. Child Family Health (CFH) nurses, who play a pivotal role in the implementation of those reforms must be adequately prepared for broad new challenges set by their expanding roles. The mixed method research was designed to explore the knowledge, skills and attributes of nurses who care for families with complex needs during the perinatal period. The investigation was conducted from three perspectives: an international expert panel; vulnerable mothers cared for by CFH nurses; and CFH nurses who delivered early interventions to families. Results were triangulated. The research findings showed that CFH nurses assumed various roles ranging from universal home visiting and psychosocial screening to more advanced roles in the care of vulnerable families. Mental health competencies, combined with the ability to practise within a public health framework, were identified as essential to achieve families ‘optimal health outcomes. A robust understanding of socio-ecological theory, a commitment to principles of prevention and early intervention, strengths-based approaches and collaborative practice were put forward as core competencies of contemporary CFH nurses