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Cummins A, Booth C, Lennon K, McLaughlin K, Prussing E, Newnham L. "A safe space"; A statewide evaluation of Midwifery Antenatal and Postnatal Service (MAPS) using the quality maternal newborn care, evidence informed framework. Women Birth 2024; 37:101642. [PMID: 38964229 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2024.101642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/29/2024] [Indexed: 07/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The World Health Organization recommends Midwifery Continuity of Care (MCoC) due to the consistent improvements in outcomes for mothers and babies. Surveys from the United Kingdom and Australia reported large numbers of midwives are unable to commit to the on call component required to provide MCoC across the continuum. To address this challenge a modified MCoC model called Midwifery Antenatal and Postnatal Services (MAPS) has been introduced. The aim of this study was to evaluate MAPS services in six sites across one State in Australia. METHODS A multi-site qualitative descriptive study was undertaken framed by the Quality Maternal Newborn Care (QMNC) Framework. The QMNC framework was used to develop focus group questions for data collection, and as a lens for analysing data. Data were collected via focus groups from midwives and women at six sites ranging from metropolitan to regional and rural settings and thematically analysed. FINDINGS Participants (n=80) included women (n=28), midwives (n=44) and MAPS managers (n=8). This paper reports the findings from the women and midwives, presented under three themes: Getting onto the program, Knowing the story and Building confidence by sharing information. Each theme had subthemes and the findings were aligned either positively or negatively with the QMNC framework. CONCLUSION This study found the MAPS model aligns in positive ways with the QMNC quality care framework with some recommendations to improve quality care. Midwives want to provide continuity of care and MAPS is a useful model for providing continuity through the antenatal and postnatal periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Cummins
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Australia.
| | - Chelsea Booth
- Nursing and Midwifery Office, New South Wales Ministry of Health, Australia
| | - Kelley Lennon
- Nursing and Midwifery Office, New South Wales Ministry of Health, Australia
| | - Karen McLaughlin
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Australia
| | - Elysse Prussing
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Australia
| | - Liz Newnham
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Australia
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Telfer M, Zaslow R, Nalugo Mbalinda S, Blatt R, Kim D, Kennedy HP. A case study analysis of a successful birth center in northern Uganda. Birth 2024. [PMID: 38923627 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mothers and infants continue to die at alarming rates throughout the Global South. Evidence suggests that high-quality midwifery care significantly reduces preventable maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. This paper uses a case study approach to describe the social and institutional model at one birth center in Northern Uganda where, in over 20,000 births, there have been no maternal deaths and the neonatal mortality rate is 11/1000-a rate that is lower than many high-resource countries. METHODS This case study combined institutional ethnographic and narrative methods to explore key maternal and neonatal outcomes. The sample included birthing people who intended to or had given birth at the center, as well as the midwives, staff, stakeholders, and community health workers affiliated with the center. Data were collected through individual and small group interviews, participant observation, field notes, data and document reviews. Iterative and systematic analytical steps were followed, and all data were organized and managed with Atlas.ti software. RESULTS Findings describe the setting, an overview of the birth center's history, how it is situated within the community, its staffing, administration, clinical outcomes, and model of care. A synthesis of contextual variables and key outcomes as they relate to the components of the evidence-informed Quality Maternal and Newborn Care (QMNC) framework are presented. Three overarching themes were identified: (a) community knowledge and understanding, (b) community integrated care, and (c) quality care that is respectful, accessible, and available. CONCLUSIONS This birth center is an example of care that embodies the findings and anticipated outcomes described in the QMNC framework. Replication of this model in other childbearing settings may help alleviate unnecessary perinatal morbidity and mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel Zaslow
- Mother Health International & Yale School of Nursing, Gulu & West Haven, Uganda
| | | | | | - Diane Kim
- Bronx Lebanon Hospital, The Bronx, New York, USA
| | - Holly Powell Kennedy
- Varney Professor of Midwifery Emeritus, Yale School of Nursing, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Egger EE, Basile Ibrahim B, Nyhan K, Desibhatla M, Gleeson D, Hagaman A. Patient-Defined Cultural Safety in Perinatal Interventions: A Qualitative Scoping Review. Health Equity 2024; 8:164-176. [PMID: 38559847 PMCID: PMC10979693 DOI: 10.1089/heq.2023.0152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Problem Cultural safety is an approach to patient care designed to facilitate respect of patients' cultural needs and address inequities in care in culturally diverse situations. Background Much literature considers culturally safe care during the perinatal period, yet little is known about how patients experience and understand cultural safety. This is despite patient-defined care being one of the definitions of cultural safety. Question Hypothesis or Aim This scoping review investigates what is known from existing qualitative literature about patients' experience of cultural safety frameworks in perinatal interventions. Methods A search for "cultural safety" OR "culturally safe" in PubMed, Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Scopus, Scielo, and Latin America and the Caribbean Literature on Health Sciences returned 2233 results after deduplication. Title-abstract and full-text screenings were conducted to identify qualitative studies of cultural safety from perinatal patients' perspectives. Seven studies were included in the final analysis. Data were open coded using NVivo. Findings Three themes were identified: (1) care that acknowledged that their lives were different from patients in the dominant culture, (2) receiving care in community, and (3) care providers who respected their choices and culturally specific knowledge. Discussion This research shows how cultural safety intersects with other equity-based frameworks used in midwifery and obstetrics. Conclusion Building on this research could lead to new protocols that address complex social and physical needs of marginalized people during the perinatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie E. Egger
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | | | - Kate Nyhan
- Cushing/Whitney Medical Library, Yale University Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Mukund Desibhatla
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Dara Gleeson
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Ashley Hagaman
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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Cummins A, Symon A. Transforming the Quality Maternal Newborn Care Framework into an index to measure the quality of maternity care. Birth 2023; 50:192-204. [PMID: 36468251 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Quality Maternal and Newborn Care (QMNC) Framework describes the care that childbearing women and newborn infants need in all settings. It comprises five components and was designed for use in planning, workforce development, and resource allocation, aimed at improving the quality and cost effectiveness of maternal and newborn care globally. The purpose of this paper is to describe the first phase of a project designed to transform the Framework into a quantitative tool for service user assessment of the quality of maternity care. METHODS Each component of the original Framework content was developed into a draft service user questionnaire and distributed to an expert panel, drawn from a range of low-, middle-, and high-resource countries. The panel consisted of five Framework authors, nine midwife researchers, six midwives, and five service user (consumer) advocates. Two rounds of discussion and revision were undertaken with the expert panel who commented on the importance, relevance and clarity of questions, and then on their necessity, wording, and order. A third round involved two experts in survey design. RESULTS Following 24 responses in the first round, the questions were refined and returned to the panel. After incorporating the second-round comments from 16 experts, the survey was then sent to two experts in questionnaire design and construction. Face validity was affirmed through this consultative process. CONCLUSIONS Despite Covid-19 pandemic-related restrictions, this robust iterative consultative process with an international expert panel has resulted in the prototype QMNC Framework index (QMNCFi)-a questionnaire designed for use in diverse settings to assess the quality of maternity care. The QMNCFi's psychometric properties are now being tested in an international online survey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Allison Cummins
- College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Andrew Symon
- Maternal Infant Health Research Unit, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
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Cutajar L, Dahlen HG, Leechburch Auwers A, Vir S, Berberovic B, Jedrzejewski T, Burns ES. Model of care matters: An integrative review. Women Birth 2023:S1871-5192(22)00367-5. [PMID: 36642558 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2022.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant women are entitled to quality care during pregnancy. Some health districts offer a variety of maternity care models but, not all women are aware of what is available and there is limited research on the experiences of women within their chosen or allocated model of care. AIM The aim of this integrative review is to explore the available literature on women's experiences of the model of care accessed during pregnancy. METHOD A database search of CINAHL, MEDLINE, SCOPUS, OVID, JBI and Cochrane Database was conducted to identify original research articles published in English between 2011 and 2021. In total, 20 articles met the inclusion criteria. FINDINGS The included papers came from nine different countries and reported on eight different models of care. Following analysis of the articles one overarching theme 'Model of care matters', and six sub themes were identified: 1.'Choosing a model', 2.'Learning about pregnancy and birth', 3.'Being known', 4.'Making social and emotional connections', 5.'Receiving enabling or disabling care' and 6.'Integrated care is best'. Some women disclosed that they had no choice in the model they were allocated, while others stated they were not provided with information about all available models of care. CONCLUSION A lack of integrated care between medical and midwifery models led to feelings of dissatisfaction and distress during pregnancy. Positive experiences were reported when women developed a connection with the care provider. The development of a well-informed decision aid could alleviate deficits of information, and clarify the subtle differences that occur within various models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Cutajar
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, New South Wales, Australia.
| | - Hannah G Dahlen
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, New South Wales, Australia.
| | | | - Swati Vir
- South Western Sydney Primary Health Network, Australia.
| | | | | | - Elaine S Burns
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Western Sydney University, New South Wales, Australia.
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Clayton CE, Hemingway A, Hughes M, Rawnson S. The public health role of caseloading midwives in advancing health equity in childbearing women and babies living in socially deprived areas in England: The Mi-CARE Study protocol. Eur J Midwifery 2022; 6:17. [PMID: 35434538 PMCID: PMC8973215 DOI: 10.18332/ejm/146012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
This article outlines the protocol for a qualitative Constructivist Grounded Theory study, examining the public health role of caseloading midwives working in a continuity model of care in areas of urban social deprivation. The study is currently being conducted in a city in the south of England during the COVID-19 pandemic. Focusing specifically on the Social Determinants of Health impacting women and babies in this context and from the perspectives of women themselves, the study is developing a theoretical framework examining the actions caseloading midwives take in response to these determinants and how these actions contribute to advancing equity and equality for women and babies at increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes. Examining and integrating the experiences of women and midwives from a Constructivist Grounded Theory perspective, the study findings will inform current NHS maternity policy and contribute to our understanding about the social processes and mechanisms underpinning the known benefits of midwifery continuity of care models in different contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte E. Clayton
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - Ann Hemingway
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - Mel Hughes
- Department of Social Sciences and Social Work, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
| | - Stella Rawnson
- Department of Midwifery and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, United Kingdom
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Carter J, Sidebotham M, Dietsch E. Prepared and motivated to work in midwifery continuity of care? A descriptive analysis of midwifery students' perspectives. Women Birth 2021; 35:160-171. [PMID: 33832870 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2021.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Internationally, midwifery education and maternity services are evolving to promote midwifery continuity of care. It is unclear whether current Australian midwifery education programs are graduating a midwifery workforce prepared and motivated to work in this way. AIM To discover how well midwifery students in Australia feel they have been prepared and motivated to work in midwifery continuity of care when they enter practice. METHODS A pragmatist approach was used. Participants were final year midwifery students at one Australian university participating in the Midwifery Student Evaluation of Practice (MidSTEP) project over three consecutive years. Descriptive analysis of selected scaled and free text responses was undertaken to ascertain how students' clinical practice experiences had influenced their learning, development and career aspirations. RESULTS Exposure to midwifery continuity of care had profound impact on students' learning, enabling them to provide woman-centred midwifery care whilst increasing confidence and preparedness for practice. The majority were motivated to work in midwifery continuity of care upon graduation. A small minority of participants felt unprepared to work in midwifery continuity of care, attributing this to their family commitments, a sense of needing more experience or unsupportive workplace cultures. SUMMARY Midwifery continuity of care experiences are highly valued by midwifery students and positively influence confidence, preparation and motivation for beginning practice. It is necessary to review education standards to ensure quality, consistency, and adequacy of these experiences throughout pre-registration midwifery education. This will assist in generating a midwifery workforce prepared and motivated to deliver the goals of maternity service reform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Carter
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Logan Campus, 68 University Dr, Meadowbrook, Queensland 4131, Australia; Transforming Maternity Care Collaborative, Australia.
| | - Mary Sidebotham
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Logan Campus, 68 University Dr, Meadowbrook, Queensland 4131, Australia; Transforming Maternity Care Collaborative, Australia
| | - Elaine Dietsch
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Logan Campus, 68 University Dr, Meadowbrook, Queensland 4131, Australia; Transforming Maternity Care Collaborative, Australia
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Tamburlini G, Bacci A, Daniele M, Hodorogea S, Jeckaite D, Siupsinskas G, Valente EP, Stillo P, Vezzini F, Bucagu M, Lincetto O. Use of a participatory quality assessment and improvement tool for maternal and neonatal hospital care. Part 1: Review of implementation features and observed quality gaps in 25 countries. J Glob Health 2020; 10:020432. [PMID: 33403104 PMCID: PMC7750018 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.10.020432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A substantial proportion of maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity is attributable to gaps in quality of care. A systematic, standard-based tool for quality assessment and improvement for maternal and neonatal hospital care (QA/QI MN tool) was developed in 2009 by the World Health Organization (WHO). The tool guides the assessment process along the whole continuum from admission to discharge, collects the views of the recipients of care and engages hospital mangers and staff in identifying gaps and drafting an action plan. METHODS Publications describing use of the WHO QA/QI MN tool from 2009 to 2017 and reports retrievable from WHO or other development partners' websites were searched and considered for inclusion in the review. Only assessments of hospitals were considered. Quality gaps were classified as regarding case management in maternal care, case management in neonatal care, hospital infrastructure, hospital policies and according to severity and frequency. Quotations from women regarding key issues in effective communication, respect and dignity, emotional support and costs incurred were selected. RESULTS In the period 2009-2017, use of the WHO QA/QI MN tool was documented in 25 countries, belonging to Central and Eastern Europe (8), Central Asia (4), Sub-Saharan Africa (11), Latin America (1) and Middle East (1). Overall, 133 hospitals were assessed. The tool allowed to identify in great detail serious quality gaps including: insufficient or incomplete adherence to recommended evidence-based procedures for normal childbirth and maternal and neonatal complications; excess of inappropriate or unnecessary interventions; insufficient infection control; failure to provide respectful care, adequate communication and emotional support to mothers and babies; poor use of information generated locally to analyse processes and outcomes. These gaps were observed in all countries. Significant differences were observed among facilities belonging to the same health systems, ie, with very similar staffing, infrastructure and equipment. CONCLUSIONS The experience made, the largest of this kind, provides comprehensive and detailed insight into the existing quality gaps in a wide variety of settings. QI cycles at facility level should be primarily based on assessments made by multidisciplinary teams of professionals to identify the parts of the care pathways which require improvement through a participatory approach involving managers, staff and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alberta Bacci
- International perinatal care consultant, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marina Daniele
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College London, UK
| | - Stelian Hodorogea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Moldova
| | - Dalia Jeckaite
- International midwifery and perinatal care consultant, Panevezys, Lithuania
| | | | - Emanuelle Pessa Valente
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, WHO Collaborating Centre for Maternal and Child Health, Trieste, Italy and Instituto de Medicina Integral Fernando Figueira, Recife, Brazil
| | - Paola Stillo
- Paediatric Emergency Department and Trauma center Meyer Hospital, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Maurice Bucagu
- WHO Department of Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent Health and Ageing, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ornella Lincetto
- WHO Department of Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent Health and Ageing, Geneva, Switzerland
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Tamburlini G, Bacci A, Daniele M, Hodorogea S, Jeckaite D, Maciulevicius A, Valente EP, Siupsinskas G, Uxa F, Vezzini F, Lincetto O, Bucagu M. Use of a participatory quality assessment and improvement tool for maternal and neonatal hospital care. Part 2: Review of the results of quality cycles and of factors influencing change. J Glob Health 2020; 10:020433. [PMID: 33403105 PMCID: PMC7750017 DOI: 10.7189/jogh.10.020433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Information about the use of the findings of quality assessments in maternal and neonatal (MN) care is lacking and the development of tools capable to effectively address quality gaps is a key priority. Furthermore, little is known about factors that act as barriers or facilitators to change at facility level. Based on the extensive experience made with the WHO Quality Assessment and Improvement MN (QA/QI MN) tool, an overview is provided of the improvements in quality of care (QoC) which were obtained over time and of the factors influencing change. METHODS All documented reports on the implementation of the WHO QA/QI MN tool were searched and screened for inclusion. Reports were considered if bringing evidence from both the baseline assessment and the reassessment. Changes were considered in four domains: maternal care, neonatal care, infrastructure and policies, with reference made to WHO maternal and neonatal care standards. The observed improvements were categorized according to intensity and extent across the sample of health facilities. Factors influencing change were categorized into internal and external and further classified as barriers or facilitators. RESULTS Changes were documented after an average period of 1.2 years from first assessment in 27 facilities belonging to 9 different countries in Central and Eastern Europe (3), Central Asia (3), sub-Saharan Africa (2) and Latin America (1). Improvements were observed in all areas of care but were greater and more frequently observed in areas related to appropriate case management and respectful care for both mothers and newborns. Although widespread across most facilities and countries, the observed improvements were not covering all the quality gaps observed at the baseline assessment nor were always sufficient to achieve standard care. Factors facilitating change as well as barriers were mainly related to the capacity of the managers and head of units to involve and motivate their staff members. CONCLUSIONS The use of WHO QA/QI MN tool proved effective in promoting significant changes in quality of care. The review of observed improvements and of factors influencing change at facility level shows that participatory assessment tools that promote a constructive dialogue with hospital managers and staff and support them in acquiring capacity in this role are crucial to implement effective quality cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alberta Bacci
- International perinatal care consultant, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marina Daniele
- Department of Women and Children's Health, Faculty of Life Sciences and Medicine, King's College, London, UK
| | - Stelian Hodorogea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, State University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Chisinau, Moldova
| | - Dalia Jeckaite
- International midwifery and perinatal care consultant, Panevezys, Lithuania
| | | | - Emanuelle Pessa Valente
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, WHO Collaborating Centre for Maternal and Child Health, Trieste, Italy and Instituto de Medicina Integral Fernando Figueira, Recife, Brazil
| | | | - Fabio Uxa
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, WHO Collaborating Centre for Maternal and Child Health, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Ornella Lincetto
- WHO Department of Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent Health and Ageing, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Maurice Bucagu
- WHO Department of Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent Health and Ageing, Geneva, Switzerland
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Lewis M. Midwives' Experience of Providing Continuity of Care in a Pilot Project: Findings of a Prospective Qualitative Research Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CHILDBIRTH 2020. [DOI: 10.1891/ijcbirth-d-20-00009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTIONThere has been a strategic drive for several years in midwifery to improve models of care and enable women to receive care from a known midwife. However over the past decade new models of care to achieve this have not been sustained and some midwives have expressed opinions that such models can never be sustainable for the staff working them. This study was designed to explore the midwives experience of working a continuity of care model, develop understanding of the lived experience of midwives, and provide insight into how such models can be sustainable from the midwives perspective. A local trust initiative to pilot a small team continuity of care model in one geographical area was introduced and a group of midwives interested in working differently were recruited onto the study to share their experiences. This article details the process and themes identified through a small qualitative research study to explore midwives' experiences of working in a new way to provide increased continuity of care for women. The study results are written in response to a local drive for change and within the context of a small group of midwives taking part in a service improvement project. The article specifically identifies themes in the midwives' experiences and lessons learnt for sustainable change in relation to continuity of care within midwifery services.METHODThe study was a qualitative descriptive study. The main purpose of the study was to gain further understanding of the personal experiences of midwives. Data was collected over a 12-month period from eight midwives who took part; reflective diaries, notes from team meetings and data from the team's “WhatsApp” group chat were used to capture the data over time. Themes identified were then verified with the participants through one to one semi structured interviews.FINDINGSThe research data has been organized into four overarching themes related to May's (2009) normalization process theory: Coherence—same difference, cognitive participation—operational workability, collective action—relationships and reflexive monitoring—personal sustainability.DISCUSSIONA key theme running throughout the data was the importance of autonomy, flexibility, and trust, enabling midwives and women to build effective therapeutic relationships. This is important to note when developing systems for care. Staff needed to feel trusted in order to work flexibly and take control over their own work/life balance. The findings indicate that where staff felt enabled to organize their own workloads they did in fact work harder to meet the needs of the women. A shift in culture in maternity systems would need to be embraced for this level of control to be afforded all midwives. It should be noted that the study was conducted in one specific area and with a small number of midwives. Hence the findings cannot be generalized and will need to be explored further across different cultures.
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Iida M, Horiuchi S, Nagamori K. Women's experience of receiving team-midwifery care in Japan: A qualitative descriptive study. Women Birth 2020; 34:493-499. [PMID: 33041236 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2020.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Team-midwifery care remains limited in Japan. To introduce changes to the midwifery system, an in-depth understanding of women's perception of receiving team-midwifery care is crucial. AIM This study aimed to describe women's experience of receiving team-midwifery care in Japan and to understand the central essence of this form of care. METHODS This study used a descriptive research design and involved focus group interviews in a birth clinic in central Tokyo. This birth clinic provided continuous team-midwifery care involving five to six midwives in one team from pregnancy to the postpartum period. Interview data were analysed by content analysis. The ethical review board of St. Luke's International Hospital, Tokyo approved this study (12-R178). FINDINGS Thirteen women who gave birth within 19 months were included. The women's experience of receiving team-midwifery care was described as "feelings of becoming closer and connected through a warm mutual relationship" with the midwives. The women felt that the midwives genuinely focused on their care and noticed their desire for their family to be involved. A trusting relationship was built through regular meetings. The women also described their experience as "a lasting feeling of ease and security". The midwives' continuity of care empowered the women even after their discharge. CONCLUSION The underlying assumption for the women's empowerment was the continuity of woman-centred care built through a trusting relationship between the women and the midwives. These important elements constitute the central essence of team-midwifery care which can be adopted regardless of the care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariko Iida
- Department of Nursing, School of Medicine, Yokohama City University, Japan.
| | - Shigeko Horiuchi
- Department of Midwifery, Graduate School of Nursing Science, St. Luke's International University, Japan
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Amiri A, Vehviläinen-Julkunen K, Solankallio-Vahteri T, Tuomi S. Impact of nurse staffing on reducing infant, neonatal and perinatal mortality rates: Evidence from panel data analysis in 35 OECD countries. Int J Nurs Sci 2020; 7:161-169. [PMID: 32685612 PMCID: PMC7355187 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnss.2020.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Revised: 01/23/2020] [Accepted: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To investigate the magnitude of effect nurse staffing had on decreasing the newborn mortality rates in member countries of Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Methods The statistical technique of panel data analysis was applied to explore the possibility of association between the number of nurses’ density per 1,000 population and infant, neonatal and perinatal mortality rates (IMR, NMR and PMR) per 1000 births. The observations of 35 OECD countries were collected over the period of 2000 through 2016. Results There were significant associations between nurse staffing and IMR, NMR and PMR i.e. a 1% increase in nurse-staffing level reduced IMR, NMR and PMR by 0.98%, 0.97% and 0.96%, respectively. Furthermore, the role of nursing-related services in declining the average of newborn mortality rates were investigated at the highest level in Slovenia (−5.50), Sweden (−3.34), Iceland (−2.51), Czech Republic (−1.86), Japan (−1.64) and Finland (−1.64). Moreover, if the current relationship between nurse-staffing level and newborn mortality rates are disturbed with nursing shortage (e.g. in Slovak Republic and Israel), then it takes about 17 years for the mortality rates to reduce and restore back to the previous equilibrium. Conclusions A higher proportion of nurses’ density per 1,000 population is associated with lower newborn mortality rates. In addition, the nursing-related services of Slovenia, Sweden, Iceland, Czech Republic, Japan and Finland with the highest impact on improving the health level of newborns would be good patterns for other developed countries in maternity and child health care .
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Affiliation(s)
- Arshia Amiri
- School of Health and Social Studies, JAMK University of Applied Sciences, Jyväskylä, Finland
| | | | | | - Sirpa Tuomi
- School of Health and Social Studies, JAMK University of Applied Sciences, Jyväskylä, Finland
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Symon A, McFadden A, White M, Fraser K, Cummins A. Using a quality care framework to evaluate user and provider experiences of maternity care: A comparative study. Midwifery 2019; 73:17-25. [PMID: 30856527 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2019.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Quality Maternal and Newborn Care Framework describes the components and characteristics of quality care and emphasises relational and continuity elements. Continuity of care is increasingly a focus of maternity care policy in the United Kingdom. While some outcomes have been shown to be improved, there is uncertainty about why certain models of care are more effective. Our overall objective is to develop a maternity care evaluation toolkit which incorporates this Framework along with other outcome evaluations. An initial step in developing this toolkit was to use the adapted Framework to evaluate perceptions and experiences of maternity care. Our specific objective in this study was to test this adapted Framework in a series of focus groups with key stakeholders, and to compare findings between different groups. Findings related to service users (pregnant women and new mothers) are reported in our accompanying paper; this paper presents findings from focus groups with service providers (midwives and obstetricians), and then compares user and provider perspectives. DESIGN A qualitative comparative enquiry involving three focus groups with 26 midwives (eight newly qualified; eight working in a community midwifery unit; and ten senior tertiary-based) and two focus groups with twelve obstetricians of all grades. We used a six-phase thematic analysis to derive then compare the focus groups' principal sub-themes; we then mapped these to the original Quality Maternal and Newborn Care Framework and compared these service providers' responses with those from the pregnant women and new mothers. SETTING Two health boards in Scotland. PARTICIPANTS Midwives and obstetricians who had experience of various models of maternity care. FINDINGS There were significant areas of overlap in their perceptions of providing maternity care. All groups reported 'limited resources and time'; the community midwifery unit and senior midwives and one group of obstetricians provided a critique of the system. Achieving tailored care was acknowledged as a problem by the senior midwives and one group of obstetricians. Only obstetricians discussed strategies for improvement. The newly qualified midwives were most positive in their responses. There was both overlap and contrast when comparing the views of service users and providers. We found most agreement when participants discussed some of the Framework's characteristics of care in negative terms, such as (in) accessible care, (lack of) adequate resources, and (absence of) tailored care. KEY CONCLUSIONS Being able firstly to map the participants' responses to the Quality Maternal and Newborn Care Framework, and then to identify strengths and gaps in the provision of quality maternity care, suggests to us that the Framework, derived as it is from a comprehensive analysis of the global evidence on quality care, can indeed be used to inform an evaluation toolkit. While aware that we cannot generalise from this limited qualitative study, we are currently undertaking similar work in other countries by which we hope to confirm our findings and further develop the toolkit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Symon
- Mother and Infant Research Unit, School of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Dundee, DD1 4HJ United Kingdom.
| | - Alison McFadden
- Mother and Infant Research Unit, School of Nursing and Health Sciences, University of Dundee, DD1 4HJ United Kingdom
| | - Marianne White
- Maternity Services, Ninewells Hospital, NHS Tayside, Dundee, United Kingdom
| | - Katrina Fraser
- Maternity Unit, Victoria Hospital, NHS Fife, Kirkcaldy, United Kingdom
| | - Allison Cummins
- Centre for Midwifery, Child and Family Health, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
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