Perceived knowledge of midwives regarding differences in cultural practices of pregnant women at a Regional Hospital in Gauteng

Abstract

The South African Nursing Council, as a professional body, expects midwives to treat and care for pregnant women as unique individuals. South Africa is a rainbow nation as a result its health care system receive patients from diverse cultural background with diverse cultures. Therefore, midwives need to know the differences in cultural practices in order to identify if these practices are safe or not so that they can advise and assist pregnant women. Knowledge of differences in cultural practices can contribute positively to rendering care to pregnant women. The purpose of the study was to explore and describe the perceived knowledge of midwives regarding differences in cultural practices amongst pregnant women at a Regional hospital in Gauteng. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used.