What will I learn on this module?
This module will develop your understanding of the theories, models and concepts which underpin the provision of universal midwifery care. The module will build on knowledge gained in year one and facilitate further application and analysis with some deeper understanding of topics linked to effective practice in 21st century.
You will consider and appraise the planning and provision of universal care during the childbirth continuum (SPM 3.1). This will include further exploration of assessment and screening such as monitoring maternal and fetal wellbeing and post-natal recovery and means to optimise outcomes (SPM 3.17.1, SPM 3.20, SPM 4.4.1). Prioritising physiological approaches and optimising the environment will discussed and studied (SPM 3.21, SPM 3.23, SPM 3.24.) The concept of pain and womens experiences during childbirth will be discussed and considered including differing approaches to relieving and coping with pain.
Knowledge of reproductive physiology will be explored in more depth through study and discussion of topics such as genetics and epigenetics. Physiological adaptations in the fetus will be studied in more depth to enable application to assessment of wellbeing during pregnancy and labour – for example fetal growth and development, responses during labour and early neonatal development (SPM 3.13.2, SPM 3.13.3. SPM 4.4.4) Understanding infection and communicable diseases will be developed through exploration of relevant microbiology, immunology, pharmacology and Pharmakinetics (SPM 3.18). These lay the foundation for the for understanding and demonstrating the midwives’ role in antimicrobial stewardship
You will develop your knowledge of public health by focusing on the health of women, neonates and the wider family and the national screening programme for these groups. Sexual health will be developed further with discussion of fertility and contraception and the application to the role of the midwife (SPM 3.4). Public health measures to manage communicable disease such as immunisation programmes will be appraised.
Evidence based practice continues to be a key theme the module will develop your ability to identify and appraise appropriate policy and evidence to support your practice. Equally important will be the recognition of the diverse needs of women, partners, fathers and young adults/adolescents (SPM3.11, SPM 3.12.1, SPM 3.12.2, SPM 3.12.3, SPM 3.12.4) and all topics will be considered and appraised in light of the professional expectations of respect and inclusivity as described in the NMC Code (2018) and the Future Midwife Standards (NMC 2019).
How will I learn on this module?
On this module, you will learn through a variety of teaching and learning strategies including lectures, seminars and directed learning e.g. on-line activities and workbooks. Practice scenarios which illustrate women’s journeys and use women’s stories will aid in the application of theory. Lectures will introduce key concepts in relation to anatomy and physiology, midwifery assessment, screening and care planning, public health and health promotion. Concepts will then be further explored within seminars and workshops, where you will learn collaboratively with and from other students.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
The academic staff involved in delivering this module will provide guidance and academic counselling to ensure that you are able to confidently engage with the module content. Learning materials, including directed and e-learning will be made available on the electronic learning platform (eLP). Seminars will form an opportunity for lecturer and peer support and feedback throughout the module. Formative feedback will be available to enable you to review your learning in a safe and supportive environment, and a group tutorial will further support preparation for the module assessment.
The student support and wellbeing service at Northumbria are excellent points of contact for assistance for queries regarding disability, faith, counselling, mental health support, finance and welfare issues. You can access these services via email on your student portal, by telephone or through the help desk staff based within university libraries
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
You will be expected to:
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. Discuss the role of the midwife in monitoring maternal and fetal wellbeing and providing care in response to need.
2. Demonstrate understanding and application of physiology, immunology genetics and pharmacology during the perinatal period.
3. Appraise the provision of public health measures and national screening programmes and reflect on the contribution made by midwives and others.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
4. Analyse the provision of universal care for women and families appraising the evidence base and applying this to practice.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
5. Critically reflect on the knowledge and skills required to provide care which recognises the diversity of women’s circumstances and needs.
How will I be assessed?
Formative assessment:
Ongoing feedback will be available from tutors throughout the module following directed activities such as seminars and following completion of e-leaning activities. Workbooks and sample questions will be used to facilitate formative learning.
Summative assessment:
The summative assessment will be
1) 45-minute MCQ. MLO 1, 2, 3 (50%)
MCQ feedback will be available electronically
2) A 1000-word reflective case report relevant to module topics. MLO 1, 3, 4, 5 (50%)
Written feedback via ESAF will be provided for the case report.
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This module will provide the relevant, evidence-based anatomy and physiology knowledge to enable you to understand the role of the midwife in optimising physiological processes. It will revisit concepts of public health and health promotion and develop these in relation to the midwife’s role in planning care that optimises outcomes for women and babies. The module is a combination of lectures, seminars, and workshops, as well as online supported learning which will expose you to women’s journeys and experiences within maternity care. Targeted formative assessment and feedback will prepare you for the summative assessment, but also future learning across the programme.
Course info
UCAS Code B725
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years full-time (45 weeks per year)
Department Nursing, Midwifery & Health
Location Coach Lane Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2024 or September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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