High-risk midwifery placements

Abstract

Although midwives are experts in normality, we need to be able to recognise, manage and refer complications which may present during the childbearing continuum. Clinical, communication and decision-making skills are vital as is multi-disciplinary teamwork in an inter-professional environment. This chapter explains the types of high risk placements which may be encountered in midwifery programmes and discusses some of the key learning opportunities which these settings provide to enable development of these skills. The emphasis is on providing safe but holistic complex care while fulfilling the role of support and advocate in partnership with the women and their families and promoting informed choice. It seeks to encourage you to approach these placements without fear so that you are better prepared for your autonomous role on qualification.