Postnatal care: teamwork in the community

To offer continuity of care as recommended by Changing Childbirth, close communication between midwives and health visitors is important. Selective postnatal visiting allows continuation of visits after the tenth day and encourages communication between the midwife and health visitor. Good communication between a midwife and health visitor can ensure that a framework of care is provided to support mothers as they develop self-confidence and independence. To ensure continuity of care, midwives should involve health visitors during the antenatal period wherever possible. Formal and informal lines of communication between midwives and health visitors should be encouraged.