The lived experiences of advanced midwives regarding the management of obstetric emergencies at selected MOUs in Johannesburg region D, Gauteng Province

Abstract

Obstetric emergencies account for the majority of causes of maternal death. The major causes of death in obstetric emergencies include bleeding, pregnancy induced hypertension, cord prolapse, shoulder dystocia, poor progress, placenta abruptio, placenta praevia and amniotic fluid embolism. A qualitative, descriptive phenomelogical research design was used to explore and describe the lived experiences of the advanced midwives regarding the management of obstetric emergencies in the MOUs of Gauteng province, South Africa. Semi-structured individual interviews were used to collect data from thirteen (13) advanced midwives who were purposively selected and had been working in the MOUs for two years and more after obtaining their qualifications. The seven Collaizi’s procedural steps were utilized for data analysis. Measures to ensure the trustworthiness of the study was adhered to. The findings revealed that, advanced midwives experiences psychosocial stress because of unconducive working environment and higher expectations from the patience and their families. They demonstrated professionalism even when the midwives showed lack of professionalism. In conclusion, unfavorable working conditions experienced by midwives had a negative impact in the management of pregnant women during obstetric emergencies. Management should support advanced midwives with necessary resources that will enable them to perform their duties effectively.