Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

The focus of this unit is to develop midwifery knowledge and skills related to the transition from pregnancy to labour and normal childbirth. Pain relief and comfort during labour as well as interventions to assess the progress of labour will be explored. Mechanisms of normal labour and management of childbirth complications will be overviewed. The focus of midwifery care within the unit is that of a midwife-women partnership model. The role of partner and family for birth support is also analysed.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, the student will have had the opportunity to:

• demonstrate knowledge regarding comprehensive assessment and care of a woman and her baby during the birth process;
• promote a partnership model of midwifery care of the woman throughout the birth process;
• explore the philosophical, physiological, psychosocial, spiritual, cultural and environmental factors influencing the birth process;
• identify a woman's need for privacy, dignity and respect, as well as the right to be informed and make decisions regarding care;
• explore principles of clinical decision-making and evidence-based practice when providing women-centred care during the process of birth;
• examine theoretical concepts surrounding pain assessment in midwifery practice during the birth process;
• identify the role of the midwife in assisting women work with pain associated with childbirth;
• examine pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods utilized to assist women to work with pain during childbirth;
• describe the legal and professional requirements associated with quality use of medicines including safe drug administration, storage and handling;
• analyse the problems associated with drug administration, including drug interactions and the use of drugs across the lifespan;
• discuss the philosophy and contribution of pharmacology in relation to other non-drug and complementary therapies in promoting health and well-being;
• explain the principles of drug treatment in common disease and non disease states or conditions, resuscitation and poisoning;
• explore the role of the midwife in assisting the woman requiring assisted vaginal and operative birth;
• identify the midwife's scope of practice and collaboration with other members of the healthcare team, where appropriate;
• critique the implications of obstetric interventions, and use of technology upon the woman and her family; and,
• demonstrate beginning level competency based upon the ANMC National Competency Standards for the Midwife.

Assessment

Written assignment (2,000 words):40%+ 2 Online quiz's (multiple choice): 20%:+ Examination (2 hours):40%

Chief examiner(s)

Ms Helen Hall

Prerequisites

HSC1301, HSC1302, MID1002, MID1003

Prohibitions

MID2005