What is the first essential step in evaluating postpartum services for families?

The first essential step in evaluating postpartum services for families is the identification of goals and outcomes. This step is crucial because it sets the foundation for all subsequent actions and interventions in postpartum care. By clearly understanding what the family hopes to achieve—such as improved maternal well-being, successful breastfeeding, or healthy infant development—care providers can tailor their evaluations and support to meet those specific needs.

Identifying goals and expected outcomes allows healthcare professionals to assess whether the services being provided are aligned with the family's needs and expectations. This step also enables effective communication among care team members and between the healthcare providers and the family, ensuring that everyone is working towards the same objectives. Only after establishing these goals can the assessment of physical health, provision of resources, and development of care plans effectively take place, as they would be designed to support the defined goals for the family.