James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2023

NS5135 - Complex Midwifery Care

Subject Description

This subject will incorporate the principles of primary health care, woman centred and value based care to explore the pathophysiology processes women experience and the pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions to manage when they have a complex need in the pregnancy continuum. A complex need will be defined as a condition that will impact on the pregnancy if not treated, causing significant morbidity and mortality. The NMBA Midwifery Standards for Practice (2018) will be applied to explore the needs of childbearing women and their families requiring complex care across the pregnancy and birth continuum. The focus will be midwifery care that is safe and appropriate, supporting collaborative care within a multidisciplinary team. This includes women with pre-existing medical conditions.

Learning Outcomes

• employ strategies to observe cultural considerations and limit the psychosocial impact of complex conditions upon a woman and their family
• describe the pathophysiological processes of complex conditions experienced by women in the pregnancy continuum
• formulate, plan and evaluate effective midwifery care for women with complex conditions, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team
• demonstrate competent, ethical and professional conduct as per the Midwifery Standards for Practice (2018), state and federal legal requirements and the Code of Conduct for Midwives (2018) and the International Confederation of Midwives Code of Ethics

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (50%) - Individual
• Complete 5 previously recruited CCEs - Individual
• Written > ePoster - (50%) - Individual
• Written > Workbook - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Clinical assessment 1 - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Clinical placement performance 1 - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Portfolio - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Passing requirements: complete and submit all assessment items; achieve a cumulative score of at least 50% after the application of any penalties such as late penalties; achieve a satisfactory grade for K2 modules, portfolio, clinical competencies and professional experience placement; achieve at least 50% for the examination. Examinations may be scheduled outside regular university examination period.

Availabilities