Nurse Midwifery Requirements
Nurse midwifery was established in the United States in the 1920's, states Midwife.org. Nurse midwives have since been recognized for their care of women before, during and after childbirth. Nurse midwives serve as primary care providers and have been instrumental in lowering infant mortality, cesarean births and episiotomies. Certification must be obtained in order for a nurse midwife to practice legally in the United States.
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Education
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Students interested in becoming a certified nurse midwife (CNM) should have a strong background in high school courses such as biology, health occupations, psychology, sociology, chemistry and algebra. Students wishing to study to obtain their CNM, must possess a high school diploma. In order to attend college to be a CNM, the student must first obtain an RN (registered nurse) degree from an accredited college. Once the student has become an RN, she must earn a certificate or a master's degree and then must complete the CNM training at an accredited school. Nurse midwifery students must pass an examination, given by the American College of Nurse Midwives in order to work as a CNM.
Physical Requirements
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Certified nurse midwives (CNMs) must be able to perform certain physical tasks. CNMs work with patients on a daily basis and must be able to bend, stoop and lift heavy objects as well as stand for long periods of time. CNMs often care for their patients on an ongoing basis, so they should enjoy nursing duties and be able to form strong relationships with their patients.
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Work Environment
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Certified nurse midwives (CNMs) must be able to work in a variety of different settings. Many hospitals employ nurse midwives, as well as private birthing centers, public health departments, health maintenance organizations, community health centers and private practice. A CNM should be able to adapt to these changing work environments, as well as provide quality in-home care to many patients. According to Midwife.org, approximately 70 percent of all patients treated by certified nurse midwives are considered vulnerable to poor health outcomes due to age, ethnicity, education, socioeconomic status or location of residency.
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References
- Photo Credit mother and baby drinking breast-milk image by hans slegers from Fotolia.com
