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The evolving practice of nurse-midwifery
V R Lops1, L Dixon, L P Hunter
1University of California, San Diego, USA.
Advanced Practice Nursing Quarterly
|July 1, 1995
Summary
Certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) provide essential healthcare in diverse settings. Despite proven effectiveness, CNMs face practice barriers hindering accessible women’s healthcare.
Area of Science:
- Nursing
- Midwifery
- Healthcare Policy
Background:
- Nurses are increasingly taking on advanced healthcare roles.
- Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) exemplify this trend, practicing in various settings.
- The evolution of the CNM role has been a lengthy and challenging process.
Observation:
- CNMs demonstrate unquestioned efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness in patient care.
- Despite their proven value, CNMs encounter persistent obstacles in their practice.
- These impediments include challenges in obtaining hospital privileges and prescriptive authority.
Findings:
- The efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness of CNM care are well-established.
- Significant barriers to full CNM practice remain.
- Obstacles such as hospital admitting privileges and prescriptive authority limit their scope.
Implications:
- Overcoming practice impediments is crucial for CNMs.
- Addressing these challenges will enhance the accessibility of nurse-midwifery services.
- Ensuring accessible care is vital for women's health outcomes.