This professional practice unit complements the theoretical unit 'HMB4101 Supporting Maternal and Newborn Wellbeing' and links to learning in the workplace. Utilising experience from the professional practice maternity placements in 'HMB2202 Midwifery Professional Practice 1' and 'HMB3102 Midwifery Professional Practice 2', students will be expected to extend their practice repertoire in providing midwifery care to women and families under the supervision of a clinical educator/preceptor. This practice unit will focus on students developing their knowledge and skills relating to women who experience complex pregnancy, labour, birth and the postpartum period. Emphasis is given to the recognition of problems and the collaborative and referral role of the midwife. Whilst recognising the role of other healthcare practitioners, midwifery care will be central. Students will be involved in providing midwifery care and support to women experiencing obstetric intervention and the use of medical technology. This unit (HMB4102) provides students with further midwifery practice opportunities in a clinical venue. This practice subject will assist students to build on skills obtained in previous semesters in working with women experiencing childbearing. Students will recruit a further three (3) women for the Continuity of Care program. Students in this unit are advised that restrictions apply to withdrawing online once enrolled, to meet the requirements of external placement providers.

Unit details

Location:
VU Sunshine Clinical School
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
HMB4102

Prerequisites

HMB3201 - Complications of the Newborn

HMB3102 - Midwifery Professional Practice 2

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Integrate evidence based knowledge and skills to ensure safe and confident midwifery practice.  
  2. Employ effective strategies in guiding women to make the transition to parenthood.  
  3. Demonstrate therapeutic communication skills in the midwifery practice context.  
  4. Provide culturally sensitive midwifery care to the childbearing woman.  
  5. Recruit three (3) women for the Continuity of Care program.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Practicum Interim Professional Practice Performance Appraisal Pass/Fail
Practicum Final Professional Practice Performance Appraisal Pass/Fail
Report Continuity of Care Report (1000 words) Pass/Fail
To gain an overall pass in this unit, students must achieve a 'Pass' grading in the Final Professional Practice Performance Appraisal, recruit three (3) women as part of the Continuity of Care program and complete the Continuity of Care Report. Supplementary assessment is not available for the Professional Practice Performance Appraisal.

Where to next?

VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.