MID3202 - Supporting the newborn infant

Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to:

1. Critically examine the social-cultural context in the provision of care to babies and their families in Australia and globally;
2. Examine the changes in anatomy and physiology of the fetus and newborn infant and describe successful adaptation to the extrauterine environment;
3. Describe the anatomy and physiology of the human female breast and process of lactation;
4. Apply strategies which promote and protect breast feeding;
5. Explore the nutritional choices available and the factors that impact upon women's decision making regarding feeding their babies;
6. Identify normal variations in the newborn period and provide appropriate management strategies;
7. Demonstrate knowledge and skills in resuscitating and stabilising a baby;
8. Identify the circumstances and conditions that may necessitate admission of a baby to a Level Two nursery;
9. Evaluate the Level Two Nursery environment and its impact upon the woman, her baby and family;
10. Utilise the clinical decision making process to demonstrate evidence-based knowledge and understanding of the care required by the baby and the family;
11. Demonstrate an appreciation of the family's need for privacy, dignity and respect, as well as their right to be informed and to make decisions regarding care of their baby;
12. Demonstrate the ability to practice within a multidisciplinary team in an environment of complexity;
13. Implement evidence-based holistic care for women, babies and their families across the childbearing process;
14. Employ reflective practice strategies to develop understanding of diverse midwifery practice; and
15. Demonstrate midwifery competency based upon the ANMC National Competency Standards for Midwives.