Lay midwife to nurse-midwife. Perceived learning needs and attitudes toward the learning experience

This descriptive study was designed to identify the perceived learning needs of students with midwifery experience who enter nurse-midwifery education programs. Instruments were developed to gather data from nurse-midwifery educators and CNMs who had been experienced lay midwives (LM/CNMs). Results indicate that LM/CNMs and educators recognize the importance of identification of knowledge and skills gained before entering the educational program, but a variety of factors inhibit the implementation of creative, individualized curriculums. Issues related to nurse-midwifery education, including identification of valid knowledge and the need for a midwifery rather than obstetric model of teaching, are discussed.