 Midwives certification presupposes several types of midwives
Added: 02/22/2006 |
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The midwives certification in the United States presupposes the existence of two types of midwives. They are certified nurse midwives and direct-entry midwives. It is also necessary to mention about the existence of such a type as certified midwives. They have practically the same requirements as certified nurse midwives. But as the profession is relatively new, it is not regulated in all states.
While speaking about midwives certification, it is necessary to mention the fact there are two types of midwives in the USA. They are certified nurse midwives and direct-entry midwives. Their credentials are different. Nevertheless, both types are trained in childbirth and are able to provide the continuous care to women during their pregnancy and labor. Midwives are also supposed to cooperate with physicians in cases of some complications and emergencies.
So, direct-entry midwives can enter the midwifery field through community-based training and apprenticeship. Traditionally, the midwives having this midwives certification take care of the women who give birth at home. During the past 50 years midwifery knew a great decline because a lot of pregnant women chose obstetrics as caregivers. But during the last 10 years there was a change in the sphere of midwifery. It was decided to standardize midwives' education through credentialing and certification. Now midwifery is getting more and more popular.
There are certain requirements to the certified midwives. They are supposed to graduate from a university-affiliated accredited midwifery educating program. They should complete the prerequisite health science requirements. The midwives are supposed to have at least the bachelor's degree and successfully pass the national certification exam.
There is also such a category as certified midwives. They have the same standards for practice, code of ethics and philosophy as certified nurse midwives. They also have the same certification. Certified midwives usually practice independently, at hospitals or at medical clinics as physician assistants. It is necessary to note that this type of midwives certification is relatively new. So, the midwives are not recognized in all states. The services of the midwives can be covered by insurance providers. A sliding scale is applied to most certified midwives.
As for certified nurse midwives, they get their midwives certification through accredited midwifery programs. They can make up prescriptions or provide different types of care including prenatal care, preconception care, newborn care, menopausal management, delivery and labor care, health maintenance counselling, gynaecological exams, family planning assistance, disease prevention and care after birth.
Nurse midwives usually cooperate with doctors, especially in those cases when the pregnancy is complicated. While providing general health care, nurse midwives work with professionals in other medical spheres. When they need an additional medical advice they send women to the appropriate physician.
The philosophy of nurse midwives tells that they are supposed to provide women with health care while respecting and acknowledging their needs. They usually encourage their patients to get education in this sphere and to take active participation. They stimulate clear communication between the woman and her caregiver.
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