Moral and ethical challenges: Media influence on maternal trust in neonatal care

Abstract

Background

Media narratives about healthcare scandals can profoundly influence public trust in medical institutions and professionals. In neonatal care, where trust in healthcare providers is crucial for parental decision-making, negative media portrayals may create ethical challenges by fostering fear and skepticism. The erosion of trust in neonatal nurses and healthcare institutions may seriously affect maternal decision-making and neonatal health outcomes.

Aim

To explore the ethical implications of media narratives on maternal trust in neonatal care. Specifically, it investigates how media portrayals of neonatal care scandals impact expectant mothers’ perceptions of neonatal professionals, their emotional responses, and their healthcare choices.

Research design

A qualitative research design was employed using semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis, following Braun and Clarke’s framework, was used to analyze the data.

Participants and research context

The study included 22 expectant mothers in their third trimester who had been exposed to media coverage of neonatal care scandals in Turkey.

Ethical considerations

Ethical approval was obtained from the University Research Ethics Committee. Participants provided written informed consent, ensuring voluntary participation and anonymity.

Results

Four major themes emerged: (1) erosion of trust in neonatal nurses and institutions, leading to skepticism and emotional distress; (2) the emotional impact of media narratives, including fear, anxiety, and defensive decision-making regarding neonatal care choices; (3) perceived quality of care, highlighting concerns over the differences between public and private NICUs and resource allocation; and (4) the need for ethical reforms, including transparency, independent oversight, and media accountability to restore trust.

Conclusions

Media narratives significantly shape maternal perceptions of neonatal care, raising critical ethical concerns about trust and accountability. The findings highlight the need for systemic reforms to ensure ethical transparency, responsible media reporting, and enhanced communication between healthcare providers and the public. Addressing these ethical challenges is essential for fostering trust in neonatal nursing and ensuring equitable, high-quality care for newborns.