Maternal positions for childbirth: a historical review of nursing care practices

The basis of maternity care practices related to maternal position for childbirth is analyzed historically in a review of the American periodical nursing literature from the early 1900's to the present and of contemporary maternity nursing texts. The factors of 1) concomitant obstetrical practices, 2) the prerogative of the physician, and 3) the evolving and predominantly supportive role of the nurse are identified as the major influences on these nursing practices. Historical aspects of the development of the current role of the nurse in maternity care are identified. While nurses are currently questioning care practices related to the positions of women for childbirth and offering more explicit rationale, the need for research related to features of physical care and a more assertive professional role for nurses is emphasized.