Enhancing the professional dignity of midwives : a phenomenological study

Abstract

BACKGROUND : When midwives are not treated with respect and their professional competencies are not recognised, their professional dignity is violated. OBJECTIVE : This study explored and described how the professional dignity of midwives in the selected hospital can be enhanced based on their experiences. RESEARCH DESIGN : A descriptive phenomenological research design was used with in-depth interviews conducted with 15 purposely selected midwives. ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS : The Faculty of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee of the University of Pretoria approved the study. The research was conducted in an academic tertiary hospital with voluntary participants. FINDINGS : To dignify midwives it is essential to enhance the following: ‘to acknowledge the capabilities of midwives’, ‘to appreciate interventions of midwives’, ‘to perceive midwives as equal health team members’, ‘to invest in midwives’, ‘to enhance collegiality’, ‘to be cared for by management’ and ‘to create conducive environments’. CONCLUSION : The professional dignity of midwives is determined by their own perspectives of the contribution that they make to the optimal care of patients, the respect that they get from others and the support that hospital management gives them. With support and care, midwives’ professional dignity is enhanced. Midwives will strive to render excellent services as well as increasing their commitment.