A Concise Guide to Continuity of Care in Midwifery

Continuity of care in midwifery has re-emerged as an evidence-based model of care – one which is known to benefit women – and it is increasingly being integrated into practice internationally. This practical, easy-to-read new edition provides a vital companion to practising caseload midwifery for students and qualified midwives new to continuity of care. Comprehensively updated for the second edition, this book outlines the contemporary political and professional context for midwifery care, different models of care, and the evidence and outcomes associated with continuity of carer. It discusses the real-life concerns, challenges and opportunities of working closely with women throughout their pregnancy and birth, covering key issues such as risk assessment, consent, boundaries, time management, documentation, communication, burnout and decision-making. Supporting the development of midwives from students to newly qualified professionals and beyond, it ends with a chapter containing a range of resources for reference, including helpful tools and worksheets. Including vignettes from students and qualified midwives about their experiences caring for women and their partners, this book is designed for anyone new to practising midwifery continuity of care. Newly developing online resources accompany the book and can be found at www.routledge.com/9781041260363