Information Practices in Midwifery

This study explores the significance of the information needs and information-seeking behaviour or practice of midwives during the antenatal and intrapartum care within the environment of a midwifery unit. The findings comprehensively point to the importance of this research context. The study found that midwives acquired patients' information from a handwritten Maternity Case Record (MCR) book and midwives' colleagues, and often during handovers. In addition, midwives also communicate with each other during care activities in the ERMOU. It was apparent that the use of such communication practices is inadequate, and midwives did not always have sufficient information to make appropriate decisions in the ERMOU. All patient information, referral notes, and reporting is paper-based. In addition, essomenic models were used to depict the midwives' work activities in the antenatal and intrapartum care environment in the Unit. To improve communication, future research is recommended to consider the importance of the continuity of the education of midwives.