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Abstract

Grounded theory research methodology has been used to explore the midwife's
understanding and beliefs of the woman's pain of labour. A group of seven midwives
working in a rural hospital participated in this study. The participants had all practiced
midwifery in the rural setting for more than two years.
When working in this rural hospital midwives are also required to work as general
nurses providing care for the sick and aged. As the birthing population of the rural
setting is falling so is the opportunity for midwives to practise their craft. Thus they
are practising predominately as registered nurses. However there exists an anomaly
for them in managing pain relief. Contemporary midwifery allows the well woman to
experience some or all her pain of labour while the sick patient has his pain relieved
as soon as possible.
Data from the participants' interviews was analysed using constant comparative
analysis. The core variable coming to realisation and five concepts hearing, seeing,
knowing, birthing and midwife believing and their associated sub-concepts were
identified. With time and confidence the midwives in their practice environment have
applied they apply these aspects of learning to other labouring women thus
complimenting complementing their formal education.
This research study identified areas of experiential learning that occur and develop the
practice of the midwives. It was also discovered there exists for each midwife a
paradox of realisation. This occurs when the expected outcome is not anticipated. This
element has the ability to undermine the confidence of the midwife in her experiential
knowledge.

Item Type:	Thesis - Coursework Master
Authors/Creators:	Burtt, Rosemary
Keywords:	Midwifery, Pain, Childbirth, Labor (Obstetrics), Midwives
Copyright Holders:	The Author
Copyright Information:	Copyright 2004 the Author - The University is continuing to endeavour to trace the copyright owner(s) and in the meantime this item has been reproduced here in good faith. We would be pleased to hear from the copyright owner(s).
Additional Information:	Thesis (MN)--University of Tasmania, 2004. Includes bibliographical references
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