Dr. Huda Abdul Jaleel Ahmed
Lecturer, Al-Bayan University, College of Nursing, Iraq
Dr. Muna Abdulwahab Khaleel
Prof. Al-Mustaqbal University, College of Nursing, Iraq
Dr. Buthainah Basheer Saleh
Lecturer, Al-Bayan University, College of Nursing, Iraq
ABSTRACT
Background: Midwifery plays a critical role in maternal and neonatal healthcare, encompassing prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care. Midwives are trained to manage normal labor and delivery while identifying high-risk situations that require medical intervention. Their knowledge and practical skills significantly influence maternal and neonatal outcomes. Additionally, laboratory-based assessments, such as maternal biochemical markers (e.g., hemoglobin, C-reactive protein, and coagulation profiles) and neonatal Apgar scores, are essential for evaluating the quality of intrapartum care. Objective: This study aimed to assess the relationship between midwives' knowledge and practices in labor management with their educational level and years of experience and explore its potential impact on maternal and neonatal clinical outcomes. Methods: A descriptive-analytical study was conducted at Al-Karkh Midwifery Teaching Hospital between September 15, 2023, and October 20, 2023. A non-probability (purposive) sample of 20 midwives working in the delivery rooms was selected. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire consisting of two sections: (1) sociodemographic and professional characteristics and (2) knowledge and practice assessment related to labor management. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to evaluate the associations between midwives’ knowledge, practices, education level, and years of experience. Additionally, maternal and neonatal laboratory parameters, including hemoglobin levels, inflammatory markers, and neonatal blood gas analysis, were reviewed to assess clinical correlations. Results: The participants' ages ranged from 25 to 48 years, with the highest percentage (35%) in the 30–34 age group. Most midwives (80%) were junior midwives, and 40% had 5–9 years of experience. A significant association was observed between midwives' education level and their knowledge of providing appropriate advice to pregnant women at the onset of labor and proper umbilical cord clamping techniques (p = 0.051, p = 0.024). Additionally, a significant relationship was found between midwives’ experience and their knowledge of administering analgesics as prescribed to enhance maternal comfort during labor (p < 0.05). However, no significant correlation was found between midwives' years of experience and their overall labor management knowledge. Preliminary laboratory data analysis indicated that midwives with higher knowledge levels were associated with better maternal hemoglobin levels and reduced inflammatory marker elevations, suggesting a potential link between midwifery care quality and maternal physiological well-being. Conclusion: Midwives' level of education significantly influences their knowledge and practices in labor management, particularly in maternal guidance and neonatal care procedures. Experience also plays a role in decision-making regarding analgesic administration. Integrating laboratory-based maternal and neonatal assessments with midwifery evaluations may provide deeper insights into the impact of midwifery education and experience on clinical outcomes. Further research is needed to explore these relationships and optimize midwifery training programs to enhance maternal and neonatal health.
Keywords: Midwife, Labor, Delivery Room.
