助産師資格のない看護師等の内診が意味すること（第一報） : 助産師不足とその背景

midwifery

看護総合科学研究会誌

In Japan, the practice of midwifery, including pelvic examination, by registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and nursing assistants is prohibited under administrative notifications issued in 2002, 2004, and 2007. This study addresses the following issues in the light of increasing social demand for midwifery. 1. As the Medical Practice Act does not designate the roles and regulations for nurse-midwives, the demands for these professionals depend on who has been charged with the responsibility for delivery. There has not been effective strategies to employ nurse-midwivesactively at matemal clinics; as a result, unlicensed persons have had to assist with deliveries. 2. There is a constant number of qualified nurse-midwives who are not currently working, but wish to start practicing. 3. The structure of the current work environment is responsible for the uneven distribution of nurse-midwives. Therefore, it is important to provide a clinical environment in which nurse-midwives can use the full extent of their training and a personal environment in which they can safely accomplish their statutory duty at delivery. It is also important to guarantee continuous education and training, clearly defining the roles of physicians and registered nurse under these conditions will help establish a partnership among them and improve employment and labor conditions. 4. Currently, nurse-midwives are routinely confronted by hospitals at delivery as to their function and responsibilities. Nurse-midwives need to regain an acknowledgement of the role of their profession in childbirth and continue to enhance their practical abilities to fulfill that role effectively.