The practice reality of ward based midwifery care: An exploration of aspirations and restrictions.

Women Birth

School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Curtin University, Bentley, Perth, Western Australia, 6102, Australia; Department of Nursing and Midwifery Education and Research, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, 6008, Australia. Electronic address:

Published: July 2020

AI Article Synopsis

  • The study examines the challenges faced by ward-based midwives in an Australian public hospital, highlighting issues around workplace balance and professional values.
  • Focus groups with 40 midwives revealed feelings of tension and frustration due to restrictions outside their control and the impact on their work experience.
  • The paper emphasizes the need for mindful practices in midwifery to ensure that midwives can provide supportive and respectful care, as neglecting these concerns could harm both caregivers and patients.

Article Abstract

Background: This paper reports on research that explores the experience of the ward based midwife, as research suggests workplace balance is problematic.

Aim: To explore the processes and practices around ward based clinical engagement and its impact in an Australian public tertiary obstetric unit.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was undertaken. Focus groups were used to gather data. Groups were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was continued until data saturation was achieved.

Findings: Seven focus groups involving 40 midwives were conducted. Midwives' voices suggested tensions arose when their aspirations around core professional values and camaraderie were compromised by the practice realism of the ward. Furthermore, they described frustration with imposed restrictions which governed their working environment. These occurred outside the ward, had a direct impact on how it functioned, and were perceived to be out of the midwives' control. Midwives experiencing emotional distress revealed they were carrying a burden. Two burdens were described: disengagement and what have I missed?

Conclusion: Thought must be given to how the art of midwifery is practiced on the ward. Ignoring the growing body of literature on this subject will be problematic for both midwives and women, as midwives will be disempowered to foster women's capabilities through tailored, supportive and respectful care.

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Source
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.wombi.2019.08.010DOI Listing

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