Course overview
This course will extend the understanding of midwifery practice to include primary healthcare to optimise healthy outcomes for mothers and their babies. Contents include: Midwifery as primary health; public health; social determinants of health; National core maternity indicators; cultural safety; compassion; continuity of care; fertility; nutritional needs of the woman in the perinatal period; nutritional needs of the newborn; health promotion; Baby Friendly Health Initiative; breastfeeding promotion; infant development; immunisation; safe sleeping; promoting healthy lifestyle choices e.g. smoking cessation; self-determination and informed choice; equity; individual and group rights; advocacy; cultural diversity and new parenthood; teenage pregnancy; health education and literacy; antenatal and postnatal education; communication; community support; research and epidemiology.
Course learning outcomes
- iscuss safe and effective public and primary health care within midwifery practice in the context of a diverse society.
- Recognise the importance of teamwork and interprofessional collaboration
- Demonstrate appropriate education and communication strategies to promote an optimal physical, psychosocial, cultural and spiritual environment for women and their families.
- Use research to inform midwifery practice within contemporary Australian society.
- Identify personal beliefs and learning needs through reflective practice and self-evaluation.
- Extend knowledge and practice to support breastfeeding, infant nutrition and development.