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Tarlazzi E. Midwifery care increases positive birth outcomes and can be cost-savings. Evid Based Nurs 2024:ebnurs-2023-103808. [PMID: 38653542 DOI: 10.1136/ebnurs-2023-103808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Tarlazzi
- DIMEC, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- AUSL della Romagna, Ravenna, Italy
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Talbot H, Peters S, Furber C, Smith DM. Midwives' experiences of discussing health behaviour change within routine maternity care: A qualitative systematic review and meta-synthesis. Women Birth 2024; 37:303-316. [PMID: 38195300 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2024.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
PROBLEM Behaviours, such as smoking, alcohol use, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity and vaccination non-adherence may lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. BACKGROUND Pregnancy has been identified as an opportune time for midwives to support women to make health behaviour changes. AIM To synthesise existing qualitative research exploring midwives' experiences of discussing health behaviour change with women within routine care. METHODS A systematic search was conducted across: Maternity and Infant Care, PsycINFO, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts. Thematic analysis was used to synthesise the data. A professional and public advisory group provided feedback during the synthesis stage. FINDINGS Twenty-two studies, published between 2005 and 2023, which represented findings from eight countries, were included in the review. The meta-synthesis revealed three themes: The midwife-woman relationship; Reflective and tailored behaviour change communication; Practical barriers to behaviour change conversations. This led to one overarching theme: Although midwives recognised the importance of behaviour change discussions, these conversations were not prioritised in clinical practice. CONCLUSION Health behaviour change discussions were de-prioritised in midwives' clinical practice. Future research should explore intervention development to support midwives with their health behaviour change communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah Talbot
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK.
| | - Sarah Peters
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Christine Furber
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK
| | - Debbie M Smith
- Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, UK
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Ranchoff BL, Paterno MT, Attanasio LB. Continuity of Clinician Type and Intrapartum Experiences During the Perinatal Period in California. J Midwifery Womens Health 2024; 69:224-235. [PMID: 38164766 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Continuity of care with an individual clinician is associated with increased satisfaction and better outcomes. Continuity of clinician type (ie, obstetrician-gynecologist or midwife) may also impact care experiences; however, it is unknown how common it is to experience discontinuity of clinician type and what its implications are for the birth experience. We aimed to identify characteristics associated with having a different clinician type for prenatal care than for birth and to compare intrapartum experiences by continuity of clinician type. METHODS For this cross-sectional study, data were from the 2017 Listening to Mothers in California survey. The analytic sample was limited to individuals with vaginal births who had midwifery or obstetrician-gynecologist prenatal care (N = 1384). Bivariate and multivariate analysis examined characteristics of individuals by continuity of clinician type. We then examined associations of clinician type continuity with intrapartum care experiences. RESULTS Overall, 74.4% of individuals had the same type of clinician for prenatal care and birth. Of individuals with midwifery prenatal care, 45.1% had a different birth clinician type, whereas 23.5% of individuals who had obstetrician-gynecologist prenatal care had a different birth clinician type. Continuity of clinician type was positively associated with having had a choice of perinatal care clinician. There were no statistically significant associations between clinician type continuity and intrapartum care experiences. DISCUSSION Findings suggest individuals with midwifery prenatal care frequently have a different type of clinician attend their birth, even among those with vaginal births. Further research should examine the impact of multiple dimensions of continuity of care on perinatal care quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany L Ranchoff
- Department of Health Promotion and Policy, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts
| | - Mary T Paterno
- Baystate Midwifery and Women's Health, Springfield, Massachusetts
| | - Laura B Attanasio
- Department of Health Promotion and Policy, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, Massachusetts
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Kim K, Kim Y, Park J. A comparison of the perceived importance and performance of midwives' roles between midwives and nurses in Korea: a cross-sectional study. KOREAN JOURNAL OF WOMEN HEALTH NURSING 2023; 29:263-273. [PMID: 38204387 PMCID: PMC10788394 DOI: 10.4069/kjwhn.2023.11.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to identify the perceptions, importance, and performance of midwives' roles among midwives and nurses in Korea. METHODS A descriptive correlational design was employed. Data were collected from 164 nurses and 79 midwives from April 1 to June 25, 2021. Midwives enrolled in the Korean Midwifery Association and nurses and midwives from two hospitals each Daegu and Gyeonggi Province in Korea were invited to participate. The independent t-test, chi-square test, the Welch-Aspin test, and Pearson correlation coefficient were used for analysis. RESULTS The midwives' role perception score (3.47±1.46) was lower than that of nurses (3.95±0.85), and the midwives' role performance score (2.98±0.83) was also lower than that of nurses (3.34±0.89). Significant differences were observed between midwives and nurses in their perception and performance of roles related to prenatal management, childbirth management, management of psychological changes, postpartum management, and newborn care. Higher role perception and performance among midwives were linked to the management of psychological changes and women's health, indicating potential areas for future development. CONCLUSION The study results suggest directions for developing new roles for midwives. It is necessary to find a way to expand the field of midwives in public health by benchmarking the roles of midwives in various countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungwon Kim
- Department of Nursing, Daegu Haany University, Daegu, Korea
| | - Yunmi Kim
- College of Nursing, Gachon University, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jummi Park
- Department of Nursing, Namseoul University, Cheonan, Korea
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McLean KA, Souter VL, Nethery E. Expanding midwifery care in the United States: Implications for clinical outcomes and cost. Birth 2023; 50:935-945. [PMID: 37449767 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study compared clinical and financial outcomes for low-risk birthing people between those attended by midwives and those attended by obstetricians during hospital births. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis of births from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2020 at hospitals participating in a perinatal quality improvement collaborative, Obstetrical Care Outcomes Assessment Program (OB COAP), in the Northwest region of the United States and estimated risk ratios using a multivariate regression approach with a modified Poisson binomial for mode of delivery, labor interventions, and newborn outcomes comparing midwife-led to obstetrician-led care. Using publicly available data on average costs of vaginal and cesarean births, we then extrapolated the cost differences in care between midwives and obstetricians. RESULTS Births in the midwife group were less likely to be associated with induction (17.6% vs. 20.3% RR 0.74; 95% CI 0.70-0.78), epidural use (58.9% vs. 76.3% RR 0.78; 95% CI 0.77-0.80), and episiotomy (2.2% vs. 3.4% RR 0.68; 95% CI 0.58-0.81). Cesarean birth was also lower in the midwifery group (7.8% vs. 12.3% RR 0.68, 95% CI 0.62-0.73), without a corresponding increase in risk in adverse neonatal outcomes. We estimated that expanding midwifery care to 100% of low-risk births across the United States could save as much as $340 million per year. CONCLUSIONS Midwifery care is associated with a lower risk of cesarean birth and other interventions versus care provided by obstetricians and is therefore likely lower-cost.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elizabeth Nethery
- The School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
- Collaboration for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Bazirete O, Hughes K, Lopes SC, Turkmani S, Abdullah AS, Ayaz T, Clow SE, Epuitai J, Halim A, Khawaja Z, Mbalinda SN, Minnie K, Nabirye RC, Naveed R, Nawagi F, Rahman F, Rasheed SI, Rehman H, Nove A, Forrester M, Mandke S, Pairman S, Homer CSE. Midwife-led birthing centres in four countries: a case study. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:1105. [PMID: 37848936 PMCID: PMC10583445 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-10125-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Midwives are essential providers of primary health care and can play a major role in the provision of health care that can save lives and improve sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn and adolescent health outcomes. One way for midwives to deliver care is through midwife-led birth centres (MLBCs). Most of the evidence on MLBCs is from high-income countries but the opportunity for impact of MLBCs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) could be significant as this is where most maternal and newborn deaths occur. The aim of this study is to explore MLBCs in four low-to-middle income countries, specifically to understand what is needed for a successful MLBC. METHODS A descriptive case study design was employed in 4 sites in each of four countries: Bangladesh, Pakistan, South Africa and Uganda. We used an Appreciative Inquiry approach, informed by a network of care framework. Key informant interviews were conducted with 77 MLBC clients and 33 health service leaders and senior policymakers. Fifteen focus group discussions were used to collect data from 100 midwives and other MLBC staff. RESULTS Key enablers to a successful MLBC were: (i) having an effective financing model (ii) providing quality midwifery care that is recognised by the community (iii) having interdisciplinary and interfacility collaboration, coordination and functional referral systems, and (iv) ensuring supportive and enabling leadership and governance at all levels. CONCLUSION The findings of this study have significant implications for improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes, strengthening healthcare systems, and promoting the role of midwives in LMICs. Understanding factors for success can contribute to inform policies and decision making as well as design tailored maternal and newborn health programmes that can more effectively support midwives and respond to population needs. At an international level, it can contribute to shape guidelines and strengthen the midwifery profession in different settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliva Bazirete
- College of Medicine and Health, Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda.
- Novametrics Ltd, Duffield, UK.
| | | | | | | | - Abu Sayeed Abdullah
- Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, Bangladesh (CIPRB), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | | | | | - Abdul Halim
- Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, Bangladesh (CIPRB), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Karin Minnie
- University of the Western Cape, Cape Town, South Africa
| | | | - Razia Naveed
- Research & Development Solutions, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Fazlur Rahman
- Centre for Injury Prevention and Research, Bangladesh (CIPRB), Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | | | - Hania Rehman
- Research & Development Solutions, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Mandy Forrester
- International Confederation of Midwives, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Shree Mandke
- International Confederation of Midwives, The Hague, Netherlands
| | - Sally Pairman
- International Confederation of Midwives, The Hague, Netherlands
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Gillen P, Bamidele O, Healy M. Systematic review of women's experiences of planning home birth in consultation with maternity care providers in middle to high-income countries. Midwifery 2023; 124:103733. [PMID: 37307778 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2023.103733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
AIM To synthesise findings from published studies, which reported on women's experiences of planning a home birth in consultation with maternity care providers. DESIGN Systematic Review DATA SOURCES: We searched seven bibliographic databases, (Ovid Medline, Embase, PsycInfo, CINAHL plus, Scopus, ProQuest and Cochrane (Central and Library), from January 2015 to 29th April 2022. REVIEW METHODS Primary studies were included if they investigated women's experiences of planning a home birth with maternity care providers, in upper-middle and high-income countries and written in English language. Studies were analysed using thematic synthesis. GRADE-CERQual was used to assess the quality, coherence, adequacy and relevance of data. The protocol is registered on PROSPERO registration ID: CRD 42018095042 (updated 28th September 2020) and published. RESULTS 1274 articles were retrieved, and 410 duplicates removed. Following screening and quality appraisal, 20 eligible studies (19 qualitative and 1 survey) involving 2,145 women were included. KEY CONCLUSIONS Women's prior traumatic experience of hospital birth and a preference for physiological birth motivated their assertive decision to have a planned home birth despite criticisms and stigmatisation from their social circle and some maternity care providers. Midwives' competence and support enhanced women's confidence and positive experiences of planning a home birth. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE This review highlights the stigma that some women feel and the importance of support from health professionals, particularly midwives when planning a home birth. We recommend accessible evidence-based information for women and their families to support women's decision-making for planned home birth. The findings from this review can be used to inform woman-centred planned home birth services, particularly in the UK, (although evidence is drawn from papers in eight other countries, so findings are relevant elsewhere), which will impact positively on the experiences of women who are planning home birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia Gillen
- Southern Health and Social Care Trust, 10 Moyallen Road, Gilford, Co Down, Northern Ireland, UK; Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, Shore Road, Newtownabbey, BT37 0QB, Northern Ireland, UK.
| | - Olufikayo Bamidele
- Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, Shore Road, Newtownabbey, BT37 0QB, Northern Ireland, UK; School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK; Institute for Clinical and Applied Health Research, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, HU6 7RX, UK.
| | - Maria Healy
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast BT9 7BL, Northern Ireland, UK.
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Niles PM, Baumont M, Malhotra N, Stoll K, Strauss N, Lyndon A, Vedam S. Examining respect, autonomy, and mistreatment in childbirth in the US: do provider type and place of birth matter? Reprod Health 2023; 20:67. [PMID: 37127624 PMCID: PMC10152585 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-023-01584-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Analyses of factors that determine quality of perinatal care consistently rely on clinical markers, while failing to assess experiential outcomes. Understanding how model of care and birth setting influence experiences of respect, autonomy, and decision making, is essential for comprehensive assessment of quality. METHODS We examined responses (n = 1771) to an online cross-sectional national survey capturing experiences of perinatal care in the United States. We used validated patient-oriented measures and scales to assess four domains of experience: (1) decision-making, (2) respect, (3) mistreatment, and (4) time spent during visits. We categorized the provider type and birth setting into three groups: midwife at community birth, midwife at hospital-birth, and physician at hospital-birth. For each group, we used multivariate logistic regression, adjusted for demographic and clinical characteristics, to estimate the odds of experiential outcomes in all the four domains. RESULTS Compared to those cared for by physicians in hospitals, individuals cared for by midwives in community settings had more than five times the odds of experiencing higher autonomy (aOR: 5.22, 95% CI: 3.65-7.45), higher respect (aOR: 5.39, 95% CI: 3.72-7.82) and lower odds of mistreatment (aOR: 0.16, 95% CI: 0.10-0.26). We found significant differences across birth settings: participants cared for by midwives in the community settings had significantly better experiential outcomes than those in the hospital settings: high- autonomy (aOR: 2.97, 95% CI: 2.66-4.27), respect (aOR: 4.15, 95% CI: 2.81-6.14), mistreatment (aOR: 0.20, 95% CI: 0.11-0.34), time spent (aOR: 8.06, 95% CI: 4.26-15.28). CONCLUSION Participants reported better experiential outcomes when cared for by midwives than by physicians. And for those receiving midwifery care, the quality of experiential outcomes was significantly higher in community settings than in hospital settings. Care settings matter and structures of hospital-based care may impair implementation of the person-centered midwifery care model.
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Affiliation(s)
- P. Mimi Niles
- New York University, 433 First Avenue, Room 644, New York, NY 10010 USA
| | - Monique Baumont
- Every Mother Counts, 333 Hudson St Suite 1006, New York, NY 10013 USA
| | - Nisha Malhotra
- University of British Columbia, BC Women’s Hospital, Shaughnessy Building E416 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1 Canada
| | - Kathrin Stoll
- Department of Family Practice, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Suite 320-5950 University Boulevard, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3 Canada
| | - Nan Strauss
- Every Mother Counts, 333 Hudson St Suite 1006, New York, NY 10013 USA
| | - Audrey Lyndon
- New York University, 433 First Avenue, Room 644, New York, NY 10010 USA
| | - Saraswathi Vedam
- University of British Columbia, BC Women’s Hospital, Shaughnessy Building E416 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC V6H 3N1 Canada
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Combellick JL, Telfer ML, Ibrahim BB, Novick G, Morelli EM, James-Conterelli S, Kennedy HP. Midwifery care during labor and birth in the United States. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 228:S983-S993. [PMID: 37164503 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.09.044] [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: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/30/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The intrapartum period is a crucial time in the continuum of pregnancy and parenting. Events during this time are shaped by individuals' unique sociocultural and health characteristics and by their healthcare providers, practice protocols, and the physical environment in which care is delivered. Childbearing people in the United States have less opportunity for midwifery care than in other high-income countries. In the United States, there are 4 midwives for every 1000 live births, whereas, in most other high-income countries, there are between 30 and 70 midwives. Furthermore, these countries have lower maternal and neonatal mortality rates and have consistently lower costs of care. National and international evidences consistently report that births attended by midwives have fewer interventions, cesarean deliveries, preterm births, inductions of labor, and more vaginal births after cesarean delivery. In addition, midwifery care is consistently associated with respectful care and high patient satisfaction. Midwife-physician collaboration exists along a continuum, including births attended independently by midwives, births managed in consultation with a physician, and births attended primarily by a physician with a midwife acting as consultant on the normal aspects of care. This expert review defined midwifery care and provided an overview of midwifery in the United States with an emphasis on the intrapartum setting. Health outcomes associated with midwifery care, specific models of intrapartum care, and workforce issues have been presented within national and international contexts. Recommendations that align with the integration of midwifery have been suggested to improve national outcomes and reduce pregnancy-related disparities.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gina Novick
- Yale University School of Nursing, Orange, CT
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A comparison of the Woman-centred care: strategic directions for Australian maternity services (2019) national strategy with other international maternity plans. Women Birth 2023; 36:17-29. [PMID: 35430186 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2022.04.003] [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: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2019 the Australian government released a guiding document for maternity care: Woman-centred care strategic directions for Australian maternity services (WCC Strategy), with mixed responses from providers and consumers. The aims of this paper were to: examine reasons behind reported dissatisfaction, and compare the WCC Strategy against similar international strategies/plans. The four guiding values in the WCC strategy: safety, respect, choice, and access were used to facilitate comparisons and provide recommendations to governments/health services enacting the plan. METHODS Maternity plans published in English from comparable high-income countries were reviewed. FINDINGS Eight maternity strategies/plans from 2011 to 2021 were included. There is an admirable focus in the WCC Strategy on respectful care, postnatal care, and culturally appropriate maternity models. Significant gaps in support for continuity of midwifery care and place of birth options were notable, despite robust evidence supporting both. In addition, clarity around women's right to make decisions about their care was lacking or contradictory in the majority of the strategies/plans. Addressing hierarchical, structure-based obstacles to regulation, policy, planning, service delivery models and funding mechanisms may be necessary to overcome concerns and barriers to implementation. We observed that countries where midwifery is more strongly embedded and autonomous, have guidelines recommending greater contributions from midwives. CONCLUSION Maternity strategy/plans should be based on the best available evidence, with consistent and complementary recommendations. Within this framework, priority should be given to women's preferences and choices, rather than the interests of organisations and individuals.
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Basile Ibrahim B, Kozhimannil KB. Racial Disparities in Respectful Maternity Care During Pregnancy and Birth After Cesarean in Rural United States. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2023; 52:36-49. [PMID: 36400125 PMCID: PMC9839498 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2022.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the experiences of pregnancy and birth after cesarean of women who live in rural areas of the United States, including access to vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), type of maternity care provider, travel times, autonomy in decision making, and respectful maternity care. DESIGN Retrospective observational study. SETTING Online questionnaire of women who gave birth in the United States. PARTICIPANTS Women (N = 1,711) with histories of cesarean and subsequent births within 5 years of participating. METHODS We calculated descriptive and bivariate statistics by identified areas of residence and stratified measures of autonomy and respectful maternity care by self-identification as a member of a racialized group. We applied qualitative descriptive analysis to responses to an open-ended survey question. RESULTS A total of 299 (17.5%) participants identified their areas of residence as rural. Similar percentages of rural and metropolitan participants were able to plan VBAC (p = .88). More rural participants than metropolitan participants reported travel times of more than 60 minutes to give birth (p < .001), and fewer had obstetricians (p = .002) or doulas (p = .03). Rural participants from racialized groups experienced significantly less respectful maternity care than White, non-Hispanic rural participants and all metropolitan participants (p = .04). Qualitative data illustrating the main findings are included. CONCLUSIONS Our findings highlight challenges faced by rural residents accessing VBAC and help explain why rates of VBAC in rural areas remain low. We suggest a range of clinical and policy strategies to improve access to VBAC in rural areas and to improve the quality of maternity care for racialized women who live in rural areas.
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Women's sense of control during labour and birth with epidural analgesia: A qualitative descriptive study. Midwifery 2023; 116:103496. [PMID: 36223662 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2022.103496] [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: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sense of control during childbirth is a critical issue concerning the association between high-quality maternity care and infant health. This study explored the facilitators of or barriers to a sense of control and the need for interventions to raise women's experience in childbirth. METHODS The data came from 17 participants. Data collection was conducted in the childbirth room and within three days following childbirth, respectively. For tackling the research problems, participant observation and interviewing were applied. Thematic analysis was applied to the data analyzed. RESULTS Two themes were identified: (1) facilitators of or barriers to practice a sense of control and (2) Care needed for a sense of control. The effectiveness of a sense of control is related to energy refill, mental loading subsided, control over decisions, non-pharmacological usage, and support from the meaningful person. Care needed includes showing empathy, providing information, using complementary pain-relief strategies, and adjusting care by parturient conditions. CONCLUSION This study highlights the influencing factors and interventions relating to women's sense of control during childbirth with epidural analgesia. The findings suggest that many approaches, such as white noise, benefit women's sense of control after an epidural. Using non-pharmacological methods, such as a birth ball, should be appropriately regulated by situations to enhance women's sense of control. Through the assessment, education, attention to maternal needs, and recognizing the barriers to a sense of control, women will benefit from the interventions designed to improve their sense of control during childbirth.
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Declercq E, Wolterink A, Rowe R, de Jonge A, De Vries R, Nieuwenhuijze M, Verhoeven C, Shah N. The natural pattern of birth timing and gestational age in the U.S. compared to England, and the Netherlands. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0278856. [PMID: 36652413 PMCID: PMC9847908 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine cross-national differences in gestational age over time in the U.S. and across three wealthy countries in 2020 as well as examine patterns of birth timing by hour of the day in home and spontaneous vaginal hospital births in the three countries. METHODS We did a comparative cohort analysis with data on gestational age and the timing of birth from the United States, England and the Netherlands, comparing hospital and home births. For overall gestational age comparisons, we drew on national birth cohorts from the U.S. (1990, 2014 & 2020), the Netherlands (2014 & 2020) and England (2020). Birth timing data was drawn from national data from the U.S. (2014 & 2020), the Netherlands (2014) and from a large representative sample from England (2008-10). We compared timing of births by hour of the day in hospital and home births in all three countries. RESULTS The U.S. overall mean gestational age distribution, based on last menstrual period, decreased by more than half a week between 1990 (39.1 weeks) and 2020 (38.5 weeks). The 2020 U.S. gestational age distribution (76% births prior to 40 weeks) was distinct from England (60%) and the Netherlands (56%). The gestational age distribution and timing of home births was comparable in the three countries. Home births peaked in early morning between 2:00 am and 5:00 am. In England and the Netherlands, hospital spontaneous vaginal births showed a generally similar timing pattern to home births. In the U.S., the pattern was reversed with a prolonged peak of spontaneous vaginal hospital births between 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest organizational priorities can potentially disturb natural patterns of gestation and birth timing with a potential to improve U.S. perinatal outcomes with organizational models that more closely resemble those of England and the Netherlands.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugene Declercq
- Community Health Sciences, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Anneke Wolterink
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Midwifery Science, AVAG/ Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Rachel Rowe
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, England
| | - Ank de Jonge
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Midwifery Science, AVAG/ Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Raymond De Vries
- Center for Bioethics and Social Sciences in Medicine, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | | | - Corine Verhoeven
- Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Midwifery Science, AVAG/ Amsterdam Public Health, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Neel Shah
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
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Vedam S, Titoria R, Niles P, Stoll K, Kumar V, Baswal D, Mayra K, Kaur I, Hardtman P. Advancing quality and safety of perinatal services in India: opportunities for effective midwifery integration. Health Policy Plan 2022; 37:1042-1063. [PMID: 35428886 PMCID: PMC9469892 DOI: 10.1093/heapol/czac032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
India has made significant progress in improving maternal and child health. However, there are persistent disparities in maternal and child morbidity and mortality in many communities. Mistreatment of women in childbirth and gender-based violence are common and reduce women's sense of safety. Recently, the Government of India committed to establishing a specialized midwifery cadre: Nurse Practitioners in Midwifery (NPMs). Integration of NPMs into the current health system has the potential to increase respectful maternity care, reduce unnecessary interventions, and improve resource allocation, ultimately improving maternal-newborn outcomes. To synthesize the evidence on effective midwifery integration, we conducted a desk review of peer-reviewed articles, reports and regulatory documents describing models of practice, organization of health services and lessons learned from other countries. We also interviewed key informants in India who described the current state of the healthcare system, opportunities, and anticipated challenges to establishing a new cadre of midwives. Using an intersectional feminist theoretical framework, we triangulated the findings from the desk review with interview data to identify levers for change and recommendations. Findings from the desk review highlight that benefits of midwifery on outcomes and experience link to models of midwifery care, and limited scope of practice and prohibitive practice settings are threats to successful integration. Interviews with key informants affirm the importance of meeting global standards for practice, education, inter-professional collaboration and midwifery leadership. Key informants noted that the expansion of respectful maternity care and improved outcomes will depend on the scope and model of practice for the cadre. Domains needing attention include building professional identity; creating a robust, sustainable education system; addressing existing inter-professional issues and strengthening referral and quality monitoring systems. Public and professional education on midwifery roles and scope of practice, improved regulatory conditions and enabling practice environments will be key to successful integration of midwives in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saraswathi Vedam
- Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, 304-5950 University Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Reena Titoria
- Population Health Observatory, Fraser Health Authority, Suite 400, Central City Tower 13450 – 102nd Avenue, Surrey, BC V3T 0H1, Canada
| | - Paulomi Niles
- Rory Meyers College of Nursing, New York University, 433 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10010, USA
| | - Kathrin Stoll
- Department of Family Practice, University of British Columbia, 304-5950 University Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada
| | - Vishwajeet Kumar
- Community Empowerment Lab, 26/11 Wazir Hasan Road, Gokhale Marg, Lucknow, UP 226001, India
| | - Dinesh Baswal
- MAMTA Health Institute for Mother and Child, B-5, Greater Kailash Enclave-II, New Delhi 110048, India
| | - Kaveri Mayra
- Global Health Research Institute, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Southampton, University Road, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Inderjeet Kaur
- Fernandez Foundation, Fernandez Hospital, 4-1-120, Bogulkunta, Hyderabad 500001, India
| | - Pandora Hardtman
- Johns Hopkins Program for International Education in Gynecology and Obstetrics, John Hopkins University, 1615 Thames Street, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
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15
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Lukasse M, Bratsberg AB, Thomassen K, Nøhr EA. Use of pudendal nerve block among midwives in Norway: A national cross-sectional study. Eur J Midwifery 2022; 6:34. [PMID: 35794878 PMCID: PMC9172938 DOI: 10.18332/ejm/146690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pudendal nerve block (PNB) is an effective analgesic during the second stage of labor and for suturing. With the introduction of epidural and spinal analgesia, PNB use decreased considerably. Most midwives receive some teaching on PNB during their midwifery education. The aim of this study was to examine the use of PNB by midwives in Norway. METHODS This was a cross-sectional study, in January 2020, using an electronic questionnaire which was distributed to approximately 1500 midwives. RESULTS A total of 527 midwives responded to the questionnaire (35%). Less than half (44.6%) of the midwives used PNB, of whom only half (123/235) used it frequently (at least once a month). The use of PNB was most common at specialized obstetric units with ≥1500 births per year. Midwives who reported good theoretical knowledge and practical skills of PNB used it significantly more often than midwives not reporting these (p<0.001). Reasons for not using PNB were: the lack of practice and experience (72.6%), and never having been taught (42.8%). Midwives reported needing training (83%) and clinical support to start using PNB (43%). CONCLUSIONS Few midwives use PNB regularly. To increase the use of PNB, midwifery education needs to include both theoretical and practical skills teaching. Midwives with insufficient knowledge and skills require the same teaching and training. In the clinical area, midwives require clinical support and supervision to practice and gain experience. Women are not offered PNB as long as midwives are not confident in providing this method of pain relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam Lukasse
- Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway
| | - Alette B. Bratsberg
- Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics, Telemark Hospital Trust, Skien, Norway
| | - Katrine Thomassen
- Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tonsberg, Norway
| | - Ellen A. Nøhr
- Department of Nursing and Health Sciences, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway
- Research Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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16
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Buchanan J, Hill M, Vass CM, Hammond J, Riedijk S, Klapwijk JE, Harding E, Lou S, Vogel I, Hui L, Ingvoldstad-Malmgren C, Soller MJ, Ormond KE, Choolani M, Zheng Q, Chitty LS, Lewis C. Factor's that impact on women's decision-making around prenatal genomic tests: An international discrete choice survey. Prenat Diagn 2022; 42:934-946. [PMID: 35476801 PMCID: PMC9325352 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We conducted a survey-based discrete-choice experiment (DCE) to understand the test features that drive women's preferences for prenatal genomic testing, and explore variation across countries. METHODS Five test attributes were identified as being important for decision-making through a literature review, qualitative interviews and quantitative scoring exercise. Twelve scenarios were constructed in which respondents choose between two invasive tests or no test. Women from eight countries who delivered a baby in the previous 24 months completed a DCE presenting these scenarios. Choices were modeled using conditional logit regression analysis. RESULTS Surveys from 1239 women (Australia: n = 178; China: n = 179; Denmark: n = 88; Netherlands: n = 177; Singapore: n = 90; Sweden: n = 178; UK: n = 174; USA: n = 175) were analyzed. The key attribute affecting preferences was a test with the highest diagnostic yield (p < 0.01). Women preferred tests with short turnaround times (p < 0.01), and tests reporting variants of uncertain significance (VUS; p < 0.01) and secondary findings (SFs; p < 0.01). Several country-specific differences were identified, including time to get a result, who explains the result, and the return of VUS and SFs. CONCLUSION Most women want maximum information from prenatal genomic tests, but our findings highlight country-based differences. Global consensus on how to return uncertain results is not necessarily realistic or desirable.
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Affiliation(s)
- James Buchanan
- Nuffield Department of Population Health, Health Economics Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,National Institute for Health Research Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK
| | - Melissa Hill
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.,Genetic and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Caroline M Vass
- Manchester Centre for Health Economics, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,RTI Health Solutions, Manchester, UK
| | - Jennifer Hammond
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.,Genetic and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Sam Riedijk
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Eleanor Harding
- BSc Paediatrics and Child Health, The UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Stina Lou
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,DEFACTUM - Public Health & Health Services Research, Central Denmark Region, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ida Vogel
- Center for Fetal Diagnostics, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lisa Hui
- Reproductive Epidemiology Group, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Perinatal Medicine, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Northern Health, Epping, Victoria, Australia
| | - Charlotta Ingvoldstad-Malmgren
- Center for Research and Bioethics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Center for Fetal Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska Hospital and Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Johansson Soller
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Karolinska Hospital and Department of Molecular Medicine and Surgery, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kelly E Ormond
- Department of Genetics and Stanford Center for Biomedical Ethics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.,Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Health Ethics and Policy Lab, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mahesh Choolani
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore.,Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Qian Zheng
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - Lyn S Chitty
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.,Genetic and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - Celine Lewis
- North Thames Genomic Laboratory Hub, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK.,Population, Policy and Practice, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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17
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Levine A, Souter V, Sakala C. Are perinatal quality collaboratives collaborating enough? How including all birth settings can drive needed improvement in the United States maternity care system. Birth 2022; 49:3-10. [PMID: 34698401 PMCID: PMC9298427 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Levine
- Smooth TransitionsFoundation for Health Care QualitySeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Vivienne Souter
- Obstetrical Care Outcomes Assessment ProgramSeattleWashingtonUSA,Department of Health ServicesSchool of Public HealthUniversity of WashingtonSeattleWashingtonUSA
| | - Carol Sakala
- National Partnership for Women and FamiliesWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
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18
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Lehner L, Gribi J, Hoffmann K, Paul KT, Kutalek R. Beyond the "information deficit model" - understanding vaccine-hesitant attitudes of midwives in Austria: a qualitative study. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1671. [PMID: 34521378 PMCID: PMC8442326 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11710-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Healthcare workers are considered key stakeholders in efforts to address vaccine hesitancy. Midwives' influence in advising expectant parents on early-childhood vaccinations is unquestioned, yet they remain an understudied group. The literature on midwives' attitudes towards vaccinations is also inconclusive. We therefore conducted an explorative qualitative study on midwives' vaccine-hesitant attitudes towards MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccinations in Austria. METHODS We conducted 12 in-depth interviews on their knowledge, concerns, and beliefs with midwives who self-identified as hesitant or resistant towards early-childhood MMR vaccinations. We analyzed the data using a grounded theory approach to distill common themes and meanings. RESULTS Healthcare workers' stewardship to address vaccine hesitancy is commonly framed in terms of the "information deficit model": disseminate the right information and remedy publics' information deficits. Our findings suggest that this approach is too simplistic: Midwives' professional self-understanding, their notions of "good care" and "good parenthood" inflect how they engage with vaccine information and how they address it to their clients. Midwives' model of care prioritized good counseling rather than sharing scientific information in a "right the wrong"-manner. They saw themselves as critical consumers of that information and as promoting "empowered patients" who were free, and affluent enough, to make their own choices about vaccinations. In so doing, they also often promoted traditional notions of motherhood. CONCLUSIONS Research shows that, for parents, vaccine decision-making builds on trust and dialogue with healthcare professionals and is more than a technical issue. In order to foster these interactions, understanding healthcare professionals' means of engaging with information is key to understanding how they engage with their constituents. Healthcare workers are more than neutral resources; their daily praxis influenced by their professional standing in the healthcare system. Similarly, healthcare professionals' views on vaccinations cannot be remedied with more information either. Building better and more diverse curricula for different groups of healthcare workers must attend to their respective roles, ethics of care, and professional beliefs. Taken together, better models for addressing vaccine hesitancy can only be developed by espousing a multi-faceted view of decision-making processes and interactions of healthcare workers with constituents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Lehner
- grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria ,grid.5386.8000000041936877XPresent Address: Department of Science & Technology Studies, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York USA ,grid.511277.7Konrad Lorenz Institute for Evolution and Cognition Research (KLI), Klosterneuburg, Austria
| | - Janna Gribi
- grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Kathryn Hoffmann
- grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina T. Paul
- grid.10420.370000 0001 2286 1424Department of Political Science, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ruth Kutalek
- grid.22937.3d0000 0000 9259 8492Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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19
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Stratton P. Standardizing care of those at great risk: the importance of sickle cell in pregnancy practice guidelines. Br J Haematol 2021; 194:950-953. [PMID: 34409588 DOI: 10.1111/bjh.17667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Stratton
- Office of the Clinical Director, National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
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20
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Turner L, Griffiths P, Kitson-Reynolds E. Midwifery and nurse staffing of inpatient maternity services - A systematic scoping review of associations with outcomes and quality of care. Midwifery 2021; 103:103118. [PMID: 34428733 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2021.103118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To undertake a scoping literature review of studies examining the quantitative association between staffing levels and outcomes for mothers, neonates, and staff. The purpose was to understand the strength of the available evidence, the direction of effects, and to highlight gaps for future research. DATA SOURCES Systematic searches were conducted in Medline (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL (EBCSCO), Cochrane Library, TRIP, Web of Science and Scopus. STUDY SELECTION AND REVIEW METHODS To be eligible, staffing levels had to be quantified for in-patient settings, such as ante-natal, labour/delivery or post-natal care. Staff groups included midwives, nurse midwives or equivalent, and assistant staff working under the supervision of professionals. Studies of the quality of care, patient outcomes and staff outcomes were included from all countries. All quantitative designs were included, including controlled trials, time series, cross-sectional, cohort studies and case controlled studies. Data were extracted and sources of bias identified by considering the study design, measurement of exposure and outcomes, and risk adjustment. Studies were grouped by outcome noting the direction and significance of effects. RESULTS The search yielded a total of 3280 records and 21 studies were included in this review originating from ten countries. There were three randomised controlled trials, eleven cohort studies, one case control study and six cross sectional studies. Seventeen were multicentre studies and nine of them had over 30,000 participants. Reduced incidence of epidural use, augmentation, perineal damage at birth, postpartum haemorrhage, maternal readmission, and neonatal resuscitation were associated with increased midwifery staff. Few studies have suggested a negative impact of increasing staffing rates, although a number of studies have found no significant differences in outcomes. Impact on the mode of birth was unclear. Increasing midwifery assistants was not associated with improved patient outcomes. No studies were found on the impact of low staffing levels for the midwifery workforce. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Although there is some evidence that higher midwifery staffing is associated with improved outcomes, current research is insufficient to inform service planning. Studies mainly reported outcomes relating to labour, highlighting a gap in research evidence for the antenatal and postnatal periods. Further studies are needed to assess the costs and consequences of variations in maternity staffing, including the deployment of maternity assistants and other staff groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley Turner
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ,.
| | - Peter Griffiths
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ and National Institute for Health Research Applied Research Centre (Wessex).
| | - Ellen Kitson-Reynolds
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Southampton SO17 1BJ,.
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21
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Jenkinson B, Kearney L, Kynn M, Reed R, Nugent R, Toohill J, Bogossian F. Validating a scale to measure respectful maternity care in Australia: Challenges and recommendations. Midwifery 2021; 103:103090. [PMID: 34332313 DOI: 10.1016/j.midw.2021.103090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 06/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Respectful maternity care is a pervasive human rights issue, but little is known about its realisation in Australia. Two scales, developed in North America, measure key aspects of respectful maternity care: the Mothers on Respect Index and Mothers Autonomy in Decision Making scale. This study aimed to validate these two scales in Queensland, Australia, and to determine the extent to which women currently experience respectful maternity care and autonomy in decision making. DESIGN A sequential two-phase study. A focus group reviewed the scales, made adaptations to scale items and completed a Content Validation Survey. The Respectful Maternity Care in Queensland survey, comprising the validated Australian scales and demographic questions was distributed online in early 2020. SETTING Queensland, Australia. PARTICIPANTS Focus group involved women (n=10) who were aged over 18, English-speaking, and had given birth during the preceding two years. All women who had birthed in Queensland between September 2019 and February 2020, were eligible to participate in the cross-sectional survey. 161 women participated in the survey. MEASUREMENTS AND FINDINGS Item content validity (>0.78) was established for all but one item. Scale content validity was established for both scales (0.92 and 0.99 respectively). Survey participants (n= 161) were mostly married/partnered (95%), heterosexual (93%), tertiary educated (47%), Caucasian (88%), and had experienced a range of maternity models of care. Median scores on each scale (74 and 26 respectively) indicated that participants felt well respected and highly autonomous. Free-text comments highlighted the importance of relationship-based care. KEY CONCLUSIONS Both scales appear valid for use in Australia. Although most participants reported high levels of respect and autonomy, the proportion of participants who had experienced continuity of midwifery care was also high. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE Both scales could be routinely deployed as patient reported experience measures in Australia, broadening the data that informs maternity service planning and delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bec Jenkinson
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia; The University of Queensland, Australia
| | - Lauren Kearney
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia; Sunshine Coast Health Institute, Australia.
| | - Mary Kynn
- University of Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Reed
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia
| | - Rachael Nugent
- Sunshine Coast Health Institute, Australia; The Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jocelyn Toohill
- Office of the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, Department of Health, Queensland, Australia
| | - Fiona Bogossian
- University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Queensland, Australia; The University of Queensland, Australia; Sunshine Coast Health Institute, Australia
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22
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Catling C, Rossiter C, Cummins A, McIntyre E. Midwifery workplace culture in Sydney, Australia. Women Birth 2021; 35:e379-e388. [PMID: 34266786 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2021.07.001] [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: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PROBLEM Aspects of the midwifery workplace culture have previously been measured as negative with limited leadership or support. Support for midwives is essential for them to face the complexity and workloads in Australian maternity units. BACKGROUND Understanding the culture of the midwifery workplace is important to develop strategies to stem workforce attrition and to optimise care of women and their families. AIMS This study aimed to assess midwives' perceptions of workplace culture in two maternity units in Sydney, Australia, and compare the results with a national study using the same validated instrument. METHOD This study reports results using the Australian Midwifery Workplace Culture instrument (n = 49 midwives) and stakeholder groups (n = 10). Simple descriptive statistics were used, and the qualitative responses were analysed thematically. FINDINGS Compared to the national sample, participants rated their workplace more favourably, especially their relationships with managers and colleagues. Over one-third (36.7%) considered that their workplace had a positive culture, compared with 27.9%e. However, they rated their workplaces more negatively on time constraints and staff resources, and reported limited autonomy. Workplaces were highly medicalised which impacted their philosophy of woman-centred care and their ability to work autonomously. DISCUSSION Factors related to collegiality in the workplace, relationship with managers, midwives' intention to leave the profession and time constraints are discussed in comparison to the national study, as well as other relevant research. Conclusion Workplace collaboration, support, respect and understanding were extremely important to midwives, as were adequate staffing levels, teamwork and opportunities for further education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Catling
- Centre for Midwifery, Child and Family Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Australia.
| | - Chris Rossiter
- Centre for Midwifery, Child and Family Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
| | - Allison Cummins
- Centre for Midwifery, Child and Family Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
| | - Erica McIntyre
- Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney, Australia; School of Public Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Australia
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23
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Barger MK. Current Resources for Evidence-Based Practice, January/February 2021. J Midwifery Womens Health 2021; 66:118-126. [PMID: 33599098 DOI: 10.1111/jmwh.13218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mary K Barger
- Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, Beyster Institute for Nursing Research, University of San Diego, San Diego, California
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24
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Midwives must, obstetricians may: An ethnographic exploration of how policy documents organise intrapartum fetal monitoring practice. Women Birth 2021; 35:e188-e197. [PMID: 34039518 DOI: 10.1016/j.wombi.2021.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The capacity for midwifery to improve maternity care is under-utilised. Midwives have expressed limits on their autonomy to provide quality care in relation to intrapartum fetal heart rate monitoring. AIM To explore how the work of midwives and obstetricians was textually structured by policy documents related to intrapartum fetal heart rate monitoring. METHODS Institutional Ethnography, a critical qualitative approach was used. Data were collected in an Australian hospital with a central fetal monitoring system. Midwives (n=34) and obstetricians (n=16) with experience working with the central fetal monitoring system were interviewed and observed. Policy documents were collected and analysed. FINDINGS Midwives' work was strongly structured by policy documents that required escalation of care for any CTG abnormality. Prior to being able to escalate care, midwives were often interrupted by other clinicians uninvited entry into the room in response to the CTG seen at the central monitoring station. While the same collection of documents guided the work of both obstetricians and midwives, they generated the expectation that midwives must perform certain tasks while obstetricians may perform others. Midwifery work was textually invisible. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Our findings provide a concrete example of the way policy documents both reflect and generate power imbalances in maternity care. Obstetric ways of knowing and doing are reinforced within these documents and continue to diminish the visibility and autonomy of midwifery. Midwifery organisations are well placed to co-lead policy development and reform in collaboration with maternity consumer and obstetric organisations.
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