Patient Experience in Obstetrics in a Military Patient Satisfaction Survey: Findings and Recommendations for Improvement.

This study analyzes inpatient care experience ratings for obstetric patients within the U.S. Military Health System (MHS) compared to medical and surgical patients, using data from the TRICARE Inpatient Satisfaction Survey (TRISS) collected between 2011 and 2019. Findings indicate that obstetric patients generally provide lower overall hospital ratings but show faster improvement over time, with nurse–patient communication identified as the strongest driver of their care experience. Nursing engagement practices such as hourly rounding, nurse leader visits, and nurse–patient shift change conversations are positively correlated with higher obstetric patient experience scores. The study suggests that healthcare administrators should consider the unique needs of obstetric patients and leverage targeted nursing practices to enhance patient experience within military treatment facilities.