Nursing Midwifery Commons^™

The Ethical Justification Of Application Of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception In Patients With Intellectual Disabilities, Kelly Savitri

Journal of Health Ethics

This paper explores the ethical justification for the use of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) in patients with intellectual disabilities, particularly in scenarios where patients cannot provide informed consent. The tension between respecting autonomy and ensuring beneficence presents a complex challenge for healthcare providers. Drawing on historical context, current reproductive justice issues, and evolving societal attitudes towards individuals with intellectual disabilities, this essay argues for a semi-discrete model that recognizes the need to prioritize patient health and safety while valuing their autonomy. By examining the implications of both past and present practices, this study highlights the necessity for healthcare providers to …

The Impact Of Having A Native Spanish-Speaking Nurse In Labor And Delivery For Latina Mothers, Lesvia Muñoz Mazariegos

Nursing | Senior Theses

Labor and Delivery is the physiological process in which a pregnant woman gives birth to a baby. With an increase of the Hispanic/Latinx population, the need for Spanish-speaking nurses also increases. Specifically in labor and delivery, language barriers play a critical role for a Latina mother’s laboring experience. However, according to the research, there is limited data on the effects of language concordance/discordance for laboring Latina mothers. To investigate, primary research articles were reviewed focusing on patient experiences with language concordance and discordance, childbirth experiences across different races, and nurses' perceptions of patient experiences related to language barriers. This proposed …

Telehealth In The Postpartum Period: An Integrative Review, Ann Elizabeth Niedermayer, Laura Orrock

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Introduction: Improving postpartum care by addressing the steep decline in postpartum care utilization is important to maternal and newborn health. This integrative review explores the use of telehealth in the postpartum period and its impact on improving health outcomes and access to care.

Methods: A literature search identified original studies published between 2018 and 2025 in PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and ScienceDirect to learn about the use of telehealth in postpartum care. Reference lists of included articles were screened, and a hand search of three applicable journals was also conducted. The search identified 1187 studies after duplicates were removed, of which …

Genetic Insights Into Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Polymorphisms And Inherited Thrombophilia: Advancing Precision Screening And Therapeutic Interventions To Optimize Perinatal Outcomes, Taylar Hash

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Introduction: Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphisms and inherited thrombophilia, such as Factor V Leiden and Prothrombin G20210A, have been implicated in adverse pregnancy outcomes, including recurrent pregnancy loss, preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and preterm birth. This integrative review explores how genetic insights into MTHFR polymorphisms and inherited thrombophilia can guide precision medicine, including both screening and therapeutic intervention, to optimize perinatal outcomes. Methods: An integrative literature review was conducted following Whittemore and Knafl’s methodology. Research databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and ScienceDirect were searched for studies published or translated to English within the last twenty years that examined MTHFR polymorphisms, …

Facilitators And Barriers To Reducing Maternal Mortality Rates In Non-Hispanic Black Women: An Integrative Review, Melissa Marie Andersson, Elizabeth L. Goes

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Introduction - Black maternal mortality remains a crucial public health crisis in the United States despite a plethora of research on the incidence. This presents in the persistent disparities in health outcomes between Black and White mothers and newborns. While numerous studies have explored isolated factors contributing to this issue, few have synthesized the full scope of barriers and facilitators influencing Black maternal health outcomes in the United States specifically.

Research Aim - This integrative review aims to identify and organize the key facilitators and barriers to reducing Black maternal mortality in the United States using the socio-ecological model as …

Emotional Safety In Maternity Care: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis, Elliesha O'Reilly, Kate Buchanan, Sara Bayes

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Safety in maternity care is a priority, and a broadened view of safety (e.g., emotional, psychological, cultural) is evident in scientific literature and in lay discourse. ‘Emotional safety’ is being referred to with increasing frequency in this context; however, there is a lack of clarity in its use and meaning. Aim: The aim of this concept analysis was to examine the concept of emotional safety in maternity care. Methods: The evolutionary approach was used for this concept analysis. Data sources: This concept analysis was literature-based, with a systematic search conducted of CINAHL, MIDIRS, and MEDLINE databases. Ten articles published …

The Work Of Midwives: The Socio-Institutional Theory Of The Meaning Of Midwives’ Work-Life Balance, Kate Buchanan, Kate Dawson, Jacqueline Taylor, Sara Bayes

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Globally, midwifery is facing a potential workforce crisis. A significant number of midwives intending to leave the profession often cite burnout as contributing to this decision. While it has been reported that work-life balance is a key element in deciding to stay in midwifery, little is known about what constitutes work-life balance and the barriers to achieving this. Aim: The aim of this study was to explore what work-life balance means to Australian midwives, and to determine its crucial features. Methods: Qualitative Description methodology was used for this study. Data were collected from 31 midwives in Australia working in …

Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander And Māori Nursing And Midwifery Academic Workforce Across Australia And Aotearoa New Zealand, Ann Bonner, Linda Deravin, Jan Dewar, Moira Williamson, Kerri Gillespie, Cheryl Atherfold, Karen Nightingale, Caryn West, Karen Strickland

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Promoting a representative and supportive industry for Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori nursing and midwifery academic staff is a key tenet of Australian and Aotearoa New Zealand universities, and fundamental to strengthening the health workforce. Surprisingly, information about this workforce is unknown. Aim: The aim of the study was to gain an understanding of the Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and Māori nursing and midwifery academic workforce. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online survey of organisations that provide accredited nursing and midwifery education within Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand. Demographic, academic and employment information relating to …

Intrapartum Hydration Assessment And Management: A Cross-Sectional Survey Of Australian And New Zealand Maternity Units, Brianne G. Mcintyre, Debbie Massey, Nigel Lee, Lauren Kearney

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: Hydration assessment and management during labour play an important role in maternal and newborn outcomes. Studies indicate that clinical practice is inconsistent, with limited consensus evident in clinical guidelines. Current practices in fluid management across public and private maternity units within Australia and New Zealand remain unknown. Respondents highlighted the importance of maternal hydration assessment and management to well-being. However, inconsistencies were noted in the documentation, medication use and adherence to clinical protocols. Aim: Our study aimed to investigate unit-level clinical practice regarding intrapartum hydration assessment and management across Australian and New Zealand private and public hospitals. The scope …

Educating Nurses On Culturally Competent Intimate Partner Violence Care, Nicole Lee

Nursing | Senior Theses

Purpose

The purpose of this research proposal is to examine the impact of mandatory training for labor and delivery nurses on culturally sensitive care for pregnant women who have experienced intimate partner violence. It aims to address gaps in provider training by evaluating improvement in screening rates, enhanced confidence, and effective interventions.

Methods

This study will recruit nurses from different labor and delivery units from different hospitals. This study will use a pre-test and post-test design to assess the effectiveness of the training. The evaluation will measure the changes in knowledge, confidence, and screening practices before and after training.

Results …

Effectiveness Of Nonpharmacological Pain Management Techniques Provided By Doulas For Laboring Mothers, Natalya L. Carnero Deering

Nursing | Senior Theses

Background: Doulas are non-medically trained professionals that support women throughout their pregnancy, labor, and postpartum period. During labor, doulas may assist in nonpharmacological pain management techniques such as counter-pressure, massage, breathing exercises, and other relaxation methods. In the literature review of this study, doulas have been shown to increase positive health outcomes such as preventing cesarean sections and preterm labor. Despite improving health outcomes, doula support is not commonly used in the United States. It is currently unknown if doula support is effective in reducing pain for laboring mothers. Purpose: This study is focused on accomplishing improved pain management and …

The Critical Role Of External Involvement In Supporting Adolescent Mothers Facing Postpartum Depression, Samantha Campopiano

Nursing | Senior Theses

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant mental health concern for adolescent mothers, especially those without a reliable support system. The current research demonstrates the importance of a support system, effective interventions, and prevention strategies for easier navigation of postpartum depression. Some effective interventions researched were therapy groups, personalized home visits, and using social media platforms to deliver therapy. This research proposal aims to examine the effectiveness of a nurse-led educational intervention for postpartum adolescent mothers without support. A quasi-experimental design will be used, with pre-and post-test assessments using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) to measure PPD symptoms in 100 …

Improving Perinatal Outcomes With The Mood Disorder Questionnaire: A Quality Improvement Project To Increase Identification And Referral, Elizabeth R. Bargardo

Master's Theses and Capstones

Abstract

Background: Perinatal mental health is a growing concern, with under identification and lack of access to mental health as contributing factors. Screening tools such as the Mood Disorder Questionnaire are one way to increase identification of patients at risk for bipolar-spectrum disorders and subsequent postpartum psychosis and initiate referrals to appropriate mental health services.

Local Problem: One outpatient women’s health center has a 94% screening rate for the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Score (EPDS) for anxiety and depression but has not implemented a screening for bipolar disorder. In addition, while approximately one in five perinatal patients struggles with a mental …

Educating Nurses On Culturally Competent Intimate Partner Violence Care, Nicole Lee

Nursing | Student Research Posters

No abstract provided.

Effectiveness Of Nonpharmacological Pain Management Techniques Provided By Doulas For Laboring Mothers, Natalya L. Carnero Deering

Nursing | Student Research Posters

No abstract provided.

To Be Soft Again: A Phenomenological Study Of Uncertainty And Resilience In Childbearing During The Covid-19 Pandemic, Marcianna Nosek

Nursing and Health Professions Faculty Research and Publications

Background:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, uncertainty was exacerbated in experiences of pregnancy and childbirth as people navigated through uncharted territory. Building resilience may be one effective way to cope. However, for those who carry a heavier burden in upholding others, a societal expectation of “toughness” and the ability to endure may lead to an appearance of resilience, while on the inside, well-being may be compromised.

Objectives:

This study is part of a larger phenomenological study that explored the broad research question: What is the lived experience of childbearing during the COVID-19 pandemic? Specific themes of uncertainty and resilience are reported …

Quality Over Quantity: Doula Perspectives On Equity, Access, And Quality Of Care In Black Maternal Health Outcomes, Terry-Ann E. Lynch

West Chester University Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Final Projects

Black maternal mortality in the United States is a public health crisis. There are a plethora of reasons as to why maternal and fetal deaths disproportionately impact Black women. From a public health perspective, health disparities are an area of concern in marginalized communities, with Black maternal mortality being a risk factor. “According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2021, the maternal mortality rate for non-Hispanic Black (subsequently, Black) women was 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, 2.6 times the rate for non-Hispanic White (subsequently, White) women (26.6)” Maternal Mortality Rates in the United States, 2021” …

A Brief History Of Antenatal Colostrum Expression, And Where To From Here, Therese A. O’Sullivan, Connie N. Ihlein

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

The practice of antenatal colostrum expression (ACE), or the extraction of colostrum from the breasts during pregnancy, has an interesting history and continues to evolve. This narrative review aims to describe how perception and practices of ACE have changed over time, summarise the evidence on ACE in maternal and infant care, and highlight areas for future research. The literature demonstrates that ACE is safe for low-risk women when done from around 36 weeks’ gestation. Women should be reassured that the skill of hand expressing is a valuable tool post-birth, regardless of whether they are able to collect colostrum antenatally or …

Through The Looking Glass; Midwifery Students' Experience Of Ethical Issues: A Feminist Explanatory Case Study, D. Bygraves, K. Wissemann, K. Buchanan

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Background: The ethical component in midwifery education is governed by international professional values, codes, and ethical principles. The aim of midwifery education is to encourage students to develop a lifelong commitment to ethical practice within their midwifery role and scope. However, little evidence is available on the experiences of midwifery students and how they navigate ethical issues in maternity systems. Aim: To present a case study from a midwifery students' perspective that demonstrates observed ethical issues and to provide analysis of the ethical issues identified. Design: A Single explanatory case study design with a feminist lens applied. Explanatory case studies …

Fostering A Resilient Healthcare System: Supportive Practice Environment Initiatives To Support Nurse And Midwives A Scoping Review, Gemma Doleman, Dianne Bloxsome, Rong Wang, Lisa Whitehead

Research outputs 2022 to 2026

Aim: This scoping review aimed to explore supportive practice environment initiatives that support novice and expert nurses and midwives. Design: Scoping review. Methods: Studies were identified through the electronic databases Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), MEDLINE, PsychInfo, Scopus, and Web of Science. Grey literature was searched using GreyNet, National Grey Literature Collection, ProQuest Dissertation and Theses, and Google Scholar. Results: Thirty-one papers met the criteria for inclusion and data extraction. The key concepts identified were the need for adequate staffing and resources, clear and regular communication, managerial presence and engagement in committees and relationship building, celebration …