Exploring the Working Relationship Between Labor and Delivery Nurses and Certified Nurse Midwives

Abstract

Bowlby's Theory of Planned Behavior states that a person's beliefs predict their behavior (Davina, 2001). Therefore, labor and delivery (L/D) nurses' beliefs about childbirth and Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) influence the behavior of L/D nurses providing care alongside CNMs. The purpose of this study was to explore the working relationship between L/D nurses and CNMs to better understand the factors for reported conflict and barriers towards positive relationships. Investigators employed a qualitative descriptive approach by using open-ended questions during audiotaped focus groups and individual interviews. A sample of 15 L/D nurses and 13 CNMs in the Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) area was obtained using social media. Conventional content analysis was used to identify themes consistent throughout the data. Investigators isolated three distinct themes that contribute to reported conflict within the working relationship of L/D nurses and CNMs: differing world views, experiencing roles, and overlapping roles. The findings of this study prompt the need for educational interventions for hospital administration and labor and delivery staff as well as the need for further research surrounding policies in facilities reporting minimal conflict between these two groups.