The aim of this module is to introduce students to the philosophy, values and knowledge underpinning professional midwifery practice.

Philosophy history and regulation of midwifery practice, professional identity, accountability and conduct. The midwife in contemporary midwifery practice and the provision of maternity services. The role of the midwife in providing individualised woman centred care within the multidisciplinary team. The social context of pregnancy and childbirth for women and their families. Principles of care in the assessment, planning, implementation, evaluation of care in pregnancy, birth and postnatal period. Introduction to care of the new-born and infant feeding practices. Introduction to perinatal bereavement. Reflection on values underpinning midwifery practice. Clinical skills: Standard precautions relevant to maternity care Application of maternal observation and assessment skills: blood pressure temperature and respiration and urine testing Introduction to midwifery care during labour and the early postnatal period Introduction to infant observation and assessment skills Introduction to the skills of documentation including charting of IMEWS Communication and use of ISBAR in the maternity setting Parenting skills and infant care practices Developing skills to support successful breastfeeding.

Explore the role of the midwife and relate this to contemporary midwifery practice Identify the principles of safe and effective midwifery care.

Appreciate the philosophy and development of midwifery practice with application to the role and function of the midwife within the multidisciplinary team.

Demonstrate and apply midwifery skills essential for practice. Demonstrate skills for assessment and care of mother and baby.

The student will participate in the learning experience through a variety of teaching and learning strategies: reflection and OSCE's and the use of the virtual learning environment. Students will also be expected to engage in self-directed study to supplement their learning. As a result of gaining an introduction to midwifery the student will gain an understanding of the role and function of the midwife and the principles of maternity care. The module aims to develop UL graduate attributes whereby the students will develop the relevant knowledge skills and attitude for the midwifery profession. The module will reflect the most recent developments in the field and students will be expected to demonstrate an awareness of how research findings impact on the provision of maternity care.