Peckover S, Aston M. Examining the social construction of surveillance: A critical issue for health visitors and public health nurses working with mothers and children.
J Clin Nurs 2017;
27:e379-e389. [PMID:
28815762 DOI:
10.1111/jocn.14014]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
To critically examine surveillance practices of health visitors (HV) in the UK and public health nurses (PHNs) in Canada.
BACKGROUND
The practice and meaning of surveillance shifts and changes depending on the context and intent of relationships between mothers and HVs or PHNs.
DESIGN
We present the context and practice of HVs in the UK and PHNs in Canada and provide a comprehensive literature review regarding surveillance of mothers within public health systems. We then present our critique of the meaning and practice of surveillance across different settings.
METHODS
Concepts from Foucault and discourse analysis are used to critically examine and discuss the meaning of surveillance.
RESULTS
Surveillance is a complex concept that shifts meaning and is socially and institutionally constructed through relations of power.
CONCLUSIONS
Healthcare providers need to understand the different meanings and practices associated with surveillance to effectively inform practice.
RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE
Healthcare providers should be aware of how their positions of expert and privilege within healthcare systems affect relationships with mothers. A more comprehensive understanding of personal, social and institutional aspects of surveillance will provide opportunities to reflect upon and change practices that are supportive of mothers and their families.
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