Study on core competencies of midwives in China

Area of Science:

• Nursing and Midwifery
• Healthcare Professional Competencies
• Maternal and Child Health

Background:

• Midwifery is a crucial component of maternal and child healthcare.
• Understanding the core competencies of midwives is essential for ensuring quality care.
• This study focuses on the specific context of midwifery practice in China.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and evaluate the core competencies of midwives in China.
• To identify areas of strength and weakness in current midwifery practice.
• To provide recommendations for improving midwifery education and practice.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach combining quantitative and qualitative research.
• Quantitative data collected from 100 midwives using the Midwife Core Competency Scale.
• Qualitative data gathered through semi-structured interviews with 12 midwives.

Main Results:

• The overall average score for midwives' core competencies was 4.17 ± 0.17.
• High competency scores were observed in labor and delivery care, newborn care, and postpartum care.
• Pre-pregnancy care received the lowest competency score (3.88 ± 0.07).

Conclusions:

• Midwives generally perceive their core competencies positively, but scope of practice limitations exist.
• Midwifery education requires enhancement in humanistic care and advanced obstetric knowledge/skills.
• Addressing these areas can improve the quality of maternal and child healthcare services in China.