Exploring midwives' perceptions of the multisensory birthing room work environment: A qualitative analysis

Area of Science:

• Healthcare environments
• Midwifery practice
• Patient experience

Background:

• Multisensory birthing rooms integrate sound, light, and visual stimuli.
• These rooms aim to create an immersive and calming atmosphere during childbirth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of multisensory birthing rooms on midwives' perceptions of their work environment.
• To understand how environmental changes influence professional practice and job satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative description based on 16 semi-structured interviews with midwives.
• Thematic analysis was applied to explore midwives' experiences before and after implementation.
• Study conducted in a labor ward at a Danish regional hospital.

Main Results:

• Midwives perceived multisensory rooms as creating a safer, less risk-focused atmosphere.
• The new environment fostered commitment to further development and new practices.
• Rooms were seen as supportive, enhancing affective attunement and reducing work stress.
• Midwives reported increased pride and empowerment in their professional roles.

Conclusions:

• The shift to multisensory birthing rooms signifies a cultural transformation.
• This transformation enhances the midwives' sense of professionalism and job satisfaction.
• Improved working environments positively impact midwifery care.