NURSE-MIDWIFE

Job Specifications

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY

DEFINITION

Under general supervision, to provide pre-partum, postpartum and neonatal nursing care for medically high-risk patients; and to do related work as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

Under medical supervision, positions in this class coordinate care throughout the maternity cycle for medically high-risk mothers and babies who meet the criteria for admission in the County clinic.

TYPICAL TASKS

Interviews pregnant patients to obtain personal, medical, surgical and gynecological histories; conducts examinations of patients during and after the gestation period, including the monitoring of vital signs, weight, blood tests, physical condition of the breasts, abdomen and vagina, presentation, lie and condition of the fetus; performs physical tests to determine abnormalities during or after gestation; on the basis of examinations, evaluates and monitors obstetrical status with physician and patient; recognizes abnormal findings or problem areas and initiates appropriate treatment, referrals or consultations to meet specific health needs; interprets information for interviews, examinations and tests to form health goals for the individual patients; implements changes in treatment in accordance with approved protocols; participates in education programs for patients and their families; provides family planning information to patients; interprets and prepares medical reports and records; refers patients to other sources of medical, nursing and institutional care.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Knowledge:

• Thorough knowledge of nursing principles and procedures as applied to mid- wifery practice.
• Thorough knowledge of the reproductive cycle.
• Working knowledge of non-surgical methods of child delivery.
• Working knowledge of delivery room equipment and procedures.
• Working knowledge of pre-natal and post-natal care of mother and child. Working knowledge of obstetrical/medical complications arising during pregnancy.
• Working knowledge of medical terminology.
• Working knowledge of uses, effects and adverse reactions to medications.
• Working knowledge of interviewing techniques and principles of patient care planning.
• Some knowledge of family planning methods.

Abilities

• Perform physical examinations and diagnostic procedures.
• Develop and implement patient health care plans.
• Follow written and oral instructions in exact detail.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with clients, physicians, nursing personnel and others contacted in course of work.
• Recognize deviations from normal in pregnancy and childbirth, and in postpartum health of mother and child, and plan appropriate intervention.
• Maintain and interpret nursing records and reports.
• Analyze situations accurately and take effective action.
• Conduct education programs for patients.

Training and Experience

Any combination of training and experience that demonstrates possession of the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain these knowledge and abilities is: One year of experience as a clinical nurse midwife.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Possession of a valid California Registered Nurse license.
• Possession of a valid California Mid-wife certificate.
• Possession of a valid California Class C Driver's License or must be able to provide suitable transportation approved by the appointing authority.