Overview
This unit will provide an understanding of the legal and ethical parameters framing midwifery practice. The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Competencies for the midwife will be examined in conjunction with Australian legislation relating to midwifery practice. You will develop critical thinking in relation to professional accountability. You will explore the various discourses that influence womens' decision making in relation to their care. This unit will enable you to understand the importance of decision frameworks that underpin clinical practice in the provision of safe care for the woman, fetus, newborn and their families.
Details
Pre-requisites or Co-requisites
Pre-req MDWF13001 Cultural and Pyschosocial Diversity in Midwifery
Important note: Students enrolled in a subsequent unit who failed their pre-requisite unit, should drop the subsequent unit before the census date or within 10 working days of Fail grade notification. Students who do not drop the unit in this timeframe cannot later drop the unit without academic and financial liability. See details in the Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework).
Offerings For Term 1 - 2021
Attendance Requirements
All on-campus students are expected to attend scheduled classes – in some units, these classes are identified as a mandatory (pass/fail) component and attendance is compulsory. International students, on a student visa, must maintain a full time study load and meet both attendance and academic progress requirements in each study period (satisfactory attendance for International students is defined as maintaining at least an 80% attendance record).
Recommended Student Time Commitment
Each 6-credit Undergraduate unit at CQUniversity requires an overall time commitment of an average of 12.5 hours of study per week, making a total of 150 hours for the unit.
Class Timetable
Assessment Overview
Assessment Grading
This is a graded unit: your overall grade will be calculated from the marks or grades for each assessment task, based on the relative weightings shown in the table above. You must obtain an overall mark for the unit of at least 50%, or an overall grade of ‘pass’ in order to pass the unit. If any ‘pass/fail’ tasks are shown in the table above they must also be completed successfully (‘pass’ grade). You must also meet any minimum mark requirements specified for a particular assessment task, as detailed in the ‘assessment task’ section (note that in some instances, the minimum mark for a task may be greater than 50%). Consult the University’s Grades and Results Policy for more details of interim results and final grades.
All University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
You may wish to view these policies:
- Grades and Results Policy
- Assessment Policy and Procedure (Higher Education Coursework)
- Review of Grade Procedure
- Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – Domestic Students
- Monitoring Academic Progress (MAP) Policy and Procedure – International Students
- Student Refund and Credit Balance Policy and Procedure
- Student Feedback – Compliments and Complaints Policy and Procedure
- Information and Communications Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Procedure
This list is not an exhaustive list of all University policies. The full list of University policies are available on the CQUniversity Policy site.
Feedback, Recommendations and Responses
Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.
Feedback from SUTE
The written assessments were beneficial and useful for practising in the real world. Obviously I've always known the importance of consent but it's something that isn't done well in nursing or midwifery and this unit helped to teach me how to gain consent, what are women's rights and confidence to advocate for women's choice.
To continue to apply legal and ethical challenges faced by midwives in the clinical setting to assessments containing a case study scenario.
Feedback from SUTE
Tanya is a very passionate teacher, who is very passionate about this subject. She is very willing to help/ assist when she can and replies promptly to all emails and keeps students "in the loop".
To continue to communicate regularly with the students a respond to student queries as quickly as possible.
Feedback from SUTE
Although the subject topic sounded very dry (ethics and law..), Tanya, the subject coordinator made this subject more interesting and relevant for midwifery practice. I enjoyed this subject and I am sure I can utilize the learned knowledge in my future practice. Thank you so much Tanya!
To continue to ensure that all legal and ethical concepts taught during the course remain focussed upon, and applied to midwifery practice where possible.
- Examine the legal and ethical parameters of midwifery practice.
- Explain professional accountability in relation to responsibilities and obligations of the midwife.
- Explore the different types of professional discourses that influence women's decision making in relation to their care.
- Demonstrate effective decision making within the midwifery framework.
NMBA Midwife Standards for Practice
Standard 1: Promotes evidence-based maternal health and wellbeing.
Standard 2: Engages in respectful partnerships and professional relationships.
Standard 3: Demonstrates the capability and accountability for midwifery practice.
Standard 4: Undertakes comprehensive assessments.
Standard 5: Develops plans for midwifery practice.
Standard 6: Provides safe and quality midwifery practice.
Standard 7: Evaluates outcomes to improve midwifery practice.
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Learning Outcomes
| Assessment Tasks | Learning Outcomes | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| 1 - Group Discussion - 30% | ||||
| 2 - Written Assessment - 30% | ||||
| 3 - Written Assessment - 40% | ||||
Alignment of Graduate Attributes to Learning Outcomes
| Graduate Attributes | Learning Outcomes | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| 1 - Communication | ||||
| 2 - Problem Solving | ||||
| 3 - Critical Thinking | ||||
| 4 - Information Literacy | ||||
| 5 - Team Work | ||||
| 6 - Information Technology Competence | ||||
| 7 - Cross Cultural Competence | ||||
| 8 - Ethical practice | ||||
| 9 - Social Innovation | ||||
| 10 - Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures | ||||
Alignment of Assessment Tasks to Graduate Attributes
| Assessment Tasks | Graduate Attributes | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | |
| 1 - Group Discussion - 30% | ||||||||||
| 2 - Written Assessment - 30% | ||||||||||
| 3 - Written Assessment - 40% | ||||||||||
Textbooks
Midwifery : Preparation for Practice
Edition: 4e (2019)
Authors: Pairman, Pincombe, Thorogood & Tracy
Churchill Livingstone
Sydney Sydney , NSW , Australia
ISBN: 9780729542678
Binding: Other
IT Resources
- CQUniversity Student Email
- Internet
- Unit Website (Moodle)
- ZOOM
- Access to The Australian College of Midwives App 'National Midwifery Guidelines for Consultation and Referral is a requirement for this unit. This can be downloaded from: https://www.midwives.org.au/resources/national-midwifery-guidelines-consultation-and-referral-3rd-edition-issue-2-2014
All submissions for this unit must use the referencing style: American Psychological Association 7th Edition (APA 7th edition)
For further information, see the Assessment Tasks.
t.capper@cqu.edu.au
Module/Topic
Introduction to Australian Law
Chapter
Chapter 13 of S, Pairman, S, Tracy, H, Dahlen & L, Dixon. (2019). Midwifery: Preparation for Practice (4th ed). Elsevier Churchill Livingstone, Sydney.
Additional readings as directed by the unit coordinator.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Competencies for the Midwife and Legislation
Chapter
Chapters 12 and 13 of S, Pairman, S, Tracy, H, Dahlen & L, Dixon. (2019). Midwifery: Preparation for Practice (4th ed). Elsevier Churchill Livingstone, Sydney.
Additional readings as directed by the unit coordinator.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Consent and Refusal of Consent
Chapter
Prescribed readings
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Record Keeping
Chapter
Prescribed readings
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Administration of Medicines
Chapter
Prescribed readings
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Safeguarding Mothers and Babies
Chapter
Prescribed readings
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Abortion and Pregnancy Loss
Chapter
Prescribed readings
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)/Episiotomy/Female Circumcision/LSCS
Chapter
Prescribed readings
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Surrogacy
Chapter
Chapters 11 and 13 of S, Pairman, S, Tracy, H, Dahlen & L, Dixon. (2019). Midwifery: Preparation for Practice (4th ed). Elsevier Churchill Livingstone, Sydney.
Additional readings as directed by the unit coordinator.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Malpractice / Misconduct / Negligence
Chapter
Chapters 12 and 13 of S, Pairman, S, Tracy, H, Dahlen & L, Dixon. (2019). Midwifery: Preparation for Practice (4th ed). Elsevier Churchill Livingstone, Sydney.
Additional readings as directed by the unit coordinator.
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Whistle Blowing / Complaints / Workplace Bullying
Chapter
Prescribed readings
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Resilience and Unit Review
Chapter
Prescribed readings
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
Module/Topic
Chapter
Events and Submissions/Topic
1 Group Discussion
Task Description:
You are required to participate in four (4) online group discussions via Moodle that will be directed by the Unit Coordinator.
You must write one main post of your own and respond to at least one of your peer’s posts.
The online activities will require you to participate in a group discussion over the semester. Marks will be awarded for your online participation in the group discussion. Do not simply give your opinion but write a discussion, using professional dialogue and you may draw on your clinical experiences. Each online submission is due by the Friday of the corresponding week at 11:55 pm AEST.
Objectives:
This assessment item relates to the following learning outcomes:
1. Examine the legal and ethical parameters of midwifery practice.
2. Explain professional accountability in relation to the responsibilities and obligations of the midwife.
3. Explore the different types of professional discourses that influence women's decision making in relation to their care.
Length of Post/Discussion: 200-300 words
Total weighting: 30%
Week 3 Topic: Due: 26/03/2021 at 23.55
Case Study 1
You work with Katrina in the birth suite of a regional hospital. Katrina gained registration as a midwife 10 months ago and has been transitioning well into her role as a graduate midwife. You have built up a good relationship with Katrina and subsequently, follow her on Twitter. One morning you are reading through your Twitter feed and note a tweet shared by Katrina that supports free birthing and suggests that the maternity unit you work in provides a low standard of care to mothers and babies.
Let’s Discuss:
What are the issues here? How do the NMBA Standards for Practice, Code of Conduct, Social Media policy, and the ICM code of ethics for midwives relate to this scenario? How would you address this situation?
Week 6 Topic: Due: 23/04/2021 at 23.55
Case Study 2
As you are leaving work one afternoon you spot Emma, one of the women that is currently admitted to your antenatal ward in the car park. As you get closer you can see that she is handing some tablets over to a young man she is chatting to in exchange for money. She sees you and sheepishly hurries away in the direction of the hospital.
Let’s Discuss:
What is the ethical challenge here? What are your responsibilities as a midwife in this situation? What other concerns may you have? How would you manage this situation?
Week 9 Topic: Due: 14/05/2021 at 23.55
Case Study 3
You are working as a graduate midwife in the antenatal clinic undertaking the booking in appointment for Karen, a 37-year-old woman who is having her second baby. When you ask Karen whether there is anything she would like to discuss she discloses to you that she is very anxious about labour and birth due to her previous very traumatic experiences where her consent was not given to procedures, including an amniotomy and an episiotomy.
Let’s Discuss:
What are your thoughts and professional responsibilities in this situation? What action would you take? How would you proceed in this situation? Any other concerns?
Week 12 Topic: Due: 04/06/2021 at 23.55
Case Study 4
You are a newly graduated midwife working in the birth suite on an evening shift. As you enter the staff changing room you witness a senior midwife berating a midwifery student for asking her to sign her clinical record book after the shift had finished. Other midwives are listening, laughing, and agreeing with the midwife. The student looks frightened, humiliated, and teary.
Let’s Discuss
What are your feelings around this scenario? What action would you take and why? What does your hospital policy say about workplace violence/bullying? Any other concerns?
Please ensure that you do not unsubscribe from any of the discussion forums.
Contribution to the online forums is to discuss thoughts and opinions relating to case studies being posed and to contribute to the discussion generated by your colleagues. Simply stating 'yes I agree with previous statements' will not be considered to be contributing to the discussion. If you are citing from other work in your post, you will be required to reference this using APA 7th edition style.
The Unit co-ordinator will collate your responses and complete the final submission.
Assessment Criteria:
Your written online discussion will be evaluated on the following assessment criteria:
Comprehension of Topic: 30%
Critical Thinking: 40%
Online Posting: 30%
Please Note:
Participation in the online activities will be directed by the Unit Coordinator/lecturer throughout the course. If a topic or discussion material arises that is challenging for you, please contact the Unit Coordinator for private correspondence.
Week 12 Friday (4 June 2021) 11:55 pm AEST
Each posting is due by the Friday at 23.55 PM of the corresponding week (weeks 3, 6, 9, and 12).
Exam Week Friday (18 June 2021)
All marks will be combined and awarded 2 weeks after the final submission.
| HD | D | C | P | F | % | |
| COMPREHENSION OF TOPIC | Comprehensively addresses all aspects of the case studies raised by the lecturer in relation to the online lecture material/course resources. Thorough comprehension of the relevance of content clearly evident. | Extensively addresses the majority of the aspects of the case studies raised by the lecturer in the online lecture material/course resources and effectively comprehends the relevance of content. | Broadly addresses most aspects of the case studies raised by the lecturer in the online lecture material/course resources. Generally demonstrates comprehension of how content is relevant. | Content basically addresses aspects of the case studies raised by the lecturer in the online lecture material/course resources. Demonstrates a basic level of comprehension of how content is relevant. | Content does not address all aspects of the case studies raised by the lecturer in the online lecture material/course resources Inadequate comprehension of required content. | 30 |
| CRITICAL THINKING | Clear, coherent, and convincing critical thought. Comprehensively inclusive of concepts and evidence. | Clear, coherent critical thought that is well developed and logically builds each point on the last. Effectively inclusive of both concepts and evidence. | Clear, critical, and logically developed thought presented. Generally inclusive of concepts and evidence. | Critical thought is discernible. Generally demonstrates logical flow although some reliance on descriptive discussion. | Discussion is poorly developed or absent. No or minimal evidence of critical thought. | 40 |
| ONLINE POSTING | Postings are made in a timely manner providing other students with the opportunity to respond. Postings consistently respond directly to course content material and demonstrate a critical and thoughtful approach to the content. Critical and mindful connections are made to other student’s discussions. Posts for every discussion topic. | Other students are given the opportunity to respond as postings are made in a timely manner. Postings largely respond directly to course content material and demonstrate a critical and thoughtful approach. Mindful connections are made to other student’s discussions in the majority of postings. Posts for every discussion topic. | Other students are given the opportunity to respond as postings are made in a timely manner. Postings mostly respond directly to course content material and demonstrate a thoughtful approach. Connections are made to other student’s discussions in some of the postings. Posts for every discussion topic. | Other students are given the opportunity to respond as postings are made in a timely manner. Postings mostly respond directly to course content material. However, could demonstrate a more thoughtful approach. Connections are made to other student’s discussions in the majority of postings. Posts for every discussion topic. | Other students are not given the opportunity to respond as postings are not made in a timely manner. Postings mostly do not respond directly to course content material. Connections are not made to other student’s discussions in the majority of postings. Fails to post for every discussion topic. | 30 |
- Examine the legal and ethical parameters of midwifery practice.
- Explain professional accountability in relation to responsibilities and obligations of the midwife.
- Explore the different types of professional discourses that influence women's decision making in relation to their care.
- Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Information Literacy
- Ethical practice
2 Written Assessment
2000 word (+ or - 10%)
Weighting: 30%
Due Date: Friday of Week 4 – 02/04/2021
Objectives:
This assessment item relates to learning outcomes one (1), two (2), and four (4).
1 – Examine the legal and ethical parameters of midwifery practice.
2 – Explain professional accountability in relation to the responsibilities and obligations of the midwife.
4 – Demonstrate effective decision making within the midwifery framework.
Case Study (Consent):
You are a newly graduated midwife caring for Lara during labour. Lara is having her first baby is progressing well. Lara births her baby in the all-fours position and sustains a first-degree tear that is not bleeding. In the room next door an emergency situation arises, and your assistance is required. You ask one of the other midwives on the unit to keep an eye on Lara who was thoroughly exhausted and having a sleep whilst waiting for a bed on the postnatal ward. You return to the room one hour later to discover that the other midwife had given Lara’s baby a bottle of formula milk. Lara had told you that she was determined to exclusively breastfeed her baby and you had handed this over to the midwife caring for her prior to leaving.
Explore the general concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice.
Consider and discuss the legal and ethical considerations in relation to the given scenario.
Describe how you would manage this situation given that Lara’s wishes were not adhered to and she was not given the opportunity to provide informed consent to this formula feed.
To pass this assessment item you must:
-
- Demonstrate your understanding of the concepts learned throughout this course.
-
- Use an academic approach to answer all components of this assessment including an introduction, body, and conclusion.
-
- Demonstrate that you have researched the relevant issues present.
-
- Show that you have read widely and analysed the gathered information, ensuring that it is applicable, evidence-based, and up to date.
Requirements:
In relation to using an academic approach:
-
- Your introduction will outline the key points of your essay.
- Your conclusion will provide an overall summary of your main points with no new information or references.
- Your conclusion will provide an overall summary of your main points with no new information or references.
-
- It is an expectation that the references you use will be recent journal articles, five years or less since publication and reference books are to be no older than ten years, unless seminal works. Correct referencing is to be utilised throughout the body of work.
-
- A reference list is required at the end of the assessment.
-
- A title page is required that includes your name, student number, the due date, word count, and your unit coordinator's name.
-
- The current American Psychological Association (APA) referencing style is a requirement. Please use the seventh edition American Psychological Association (APA) referencing style. The CQUniversity Academic Learning Centre has an online APA Referencing Style Guide.
Resources:
-
- Before commencing the assessment you are required to read the marking rubric for the assessment.
-
- You can use unit provided materials and other credible sources (e.g. journal articles, books, grey literature) to reference your argument. The quality and credibility of your sources are important.
-
- We recommend that you access your discipline-specific library guide: the Nursing and Midwifery Guide.
-
- We recommend you use EndNote to manage your citations and reference list. More information on how to use EndNote is available at the CQUniversity Library website.
-
- For information on academic communication please go to the Academic Learning Centre Moodle site. The Academic Communication section has many helpful resources including information for students with English as a second language.
-
- Submit a draft before the due date to review your Turnitin Similarity Score before making a final submission. Instructions are available here.
Submission:
-
Submission of the assessment is via Moodle, if you experience any problems with submission, please contact the CQU helpdesk on (07) 493099233 or (toll-free) on 1300 666.
-
Please note if the assessment is not clearly marked with your name and student number there may be delays in receiving your marked assessment feedback.
Support and extensions:
If you require an extension for this assessment you must request an extension prior to the due date unless there are special circumstances, you must then contact the coordinator for advice and direction.
Support and Contact Details: Unit Coordinator - Tanya Capper - Phone number (07) 3023 4249 and e-mail t.capper@cqu.edu.au
Week 4 Friday (2 Apr 2021) 11:55 pm AEST
Vacation Week Friday (16 Apr 2021)
| HD | D | C | P | F | |
| Structure (15%) | |||||
| Clear and succinct introduction that introduces the topic and outlines the direction of the paper. (5%) | Clear and appropriate introduction that introduces the topic and outlines the direction of the paper. | Appropriate introduction that introduces the topic and outlines the direction of the paper. | Introduction is apparent and the topic is introduced but there is not clear direction to the paper. | No recognisable introduction-the topic is not introduced and/or there is no direction of the paper. | |
| Clear and succinct conclusion that outlines the main points and brings the argument to a logical close. (5%) | Clear and appropriate conclusion that outlines the main points and brings the argument to a close. | Conclusion outlines most of the main points and brings some sense of closure. | Conclusion apparent and outlines most of the main points and endeavours to bring the argument to a close; there may be some incongruity. | No recognisable conclusion-little reference to the main points and no clear conclusion to the paper. | |
| Excellent presentation of assignment double spaced with 12-point font. Consistently accurate with spelling, grammar, and paragraph structure. (5%) | Well-presented assignment double spaced with 12-point font. 1 or 2 errors spelling, grammar, and paragraph structure. | Well-presented assignment double spaced with 12-point font. 3 or 4 consistent errors with spelling, grammar, and paragraph structure. | Well-presented assignment double spaced with 12-point font. 3 or 4 inconsistent errors with spelling, grammar, and paragraph structure. | Poorly presented assignment. Double spacing not used. 12-point font not used. Many inaccuracies with spelling, grammar, and paragraph structure. (> 5 errors). | |
| Approach & Argument (75%) | |||||
| Content is clearly relevant to the topic; the approach comprehensively answers the questions and the argument proceeds logically and is within the set word limit. (10%) | Content is relevant to the topic; the approach clearly answers the questions and the argument proceeds logically and is within the set word limit. | Content is appropriate and answers the questions and the argument for the most part proceeds logically and is within the set word limit. | Content answers the questions, the argument is at times repetitive or lacks cohesion and is within the set word limit with a 10% allowance (under or over the set limit). | Content is irrelevant and or does not answer the questions and the argument lacks cohesion. The word limit has not been adhered to, the word limit is over or under the 10% allowance. | |
| An articulate and comprehensive exploration of the concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. (20%) | An insightful and well-developed exploration of the concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. | A logical exploration of the concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. | A disjointed exploration of the concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. | An inadequate exploration of the concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. | |
Articulate and comprehensive consideration and discussion of the legal and ethical consideration in relation to the given scenario. (25 %)
|
Insightful and well-developed consideration and discussion of the legal and ethical consideration in relation to the given scenario. | A logical consideration and discussion of the legal and ethical consideration in relation to the given scenario. | A disjointed consideration and discussion of the legal and ethical consideration in relation to the given scenario. | Inadequate consideration and discussion of the legal and ethical consideration in relation to the given scenario. | |
Comprehensive description of how you would manage this situation given that Lara was not listened to and not given the opportunity to provide informed consent. (20%)
|
Well-developed description of how you would manage this situation given that Lara was not listened to and not given the opportunity to provide informed consent. | Broad description of how you would manage this situation given that Lara was not listened to and not given the opportunity to provide informed consent. | Minimal description of how you would manage this situation given that Lara was not listened to and not given the opportunity to provide informed consent. | Inadequate description of how you would manage this situation given that Lara was not listened to and not given the opportunity to provide informed consent. | |
| Referencing (10%) | |||||
| Consistently integrates up-to-date references to support and reflect all ideas, factual information and quotations. (5%) | Generally integrates up-to-date references to support and reflect ideas, factual information and quotations, with 1 or 2 exceptions. | Frequently integrates up-to-date references to support and reflect ideas, factual information and quotations, with 3 or 4 exceptions. | Integrates up-to-date references to support and reflect ideas, factual information and quotations, with 5 or 6 exceptions. | Fails to or infrequent attempts (>7 errors) to integrate up-to-date references to support and reflect ideas, factual information and quotations. | |
| Consistently accurate with referencing. A minimum of 10 references used including 7 journal articles and relevant websites. (5%) | 1 or 2 consistent referencing errors identified. A minimum of 10 references used including 6 journal articles and relevant websites. | 3 or 4 consistent referencing errors identified. A minimum of 10 references used including 5 journal articles and relevant websites. | 3 or 4 inconsistent referencing errors identified. A minimum of 10 references used including 4 journal articles and relevant websites. | Many inaccuracies with referencing (>5). Less than 10 references used. Less than 4 journal articles not sourced. Relevant websites not included. | |
- Examine the legal and ethical parameters of midwifery practice.
- Explain professional accountability in relation to responsibilities and obligations of the midwife.
- Demonstrate effective decision making within the midwifery framework.
- Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Information Literacy
- Ethical practice
3 Written Assessment
Task Description:
2500 words (+ or - 10%)
Weighting: 40%
Due Date: Friday of week 10 - 21/05/2021 at 23:55 hrs
Objectives:
This assessment item relates to learning outcomes three (3), and four (4).
3 – Explore the different types of professional discourses that influence women’s decision making in relation to their care.
4 – Demonstrate effective decision making within the midwifery framework.
You must be able to demonstrate your understanding of the concepts learned throughout this course. You are expected to use an academic approach to answer all components of this assessment. Using this approach, you will need to demonstrate that you have researched the relevant issues present. You are required to read widely and analyse the information that you gather, ensuring that it is applicable, evidence-based, and up-to-date.
Task: Case Study
You are the midwife caring for Cassandra, a 26-year-old woman 19 weeks into her first pregnancy. Cassandra discloses to you at the booking in appointment that she regularly uses cannabis and on occasions, injects heroin when socialising with a group of friends. She tells you that a couple of members of that group of friends have had babies whilst using heroin and says that it is fine if only used infrequently. Cassandra has subsequently declined all referrals relating to this drug use.
As a result of Cassandra’s decision to decline referral, a care plan must be formulated in collaboration with a number of key stakeholders which include the obstetrician, and yourself as the lead midwifery carer.
Discuss the risks of drug use in pregnancy.
Explore the legal and ethical considerations in this scenario.
Based upon an appropriate ethical decision-making framework (of your choice), discuss the approach you would take to the care of Cassandra and her unborn baby with reference to the ICM International Code of Ethics for Midwives (ICM, 2014) and the relevant NMBA Professional Codes and Guidelines.
To pass this assessment item you must:
-
- Demonstrate your understanding of the concepts learned throughout this course.
-
- Use an academic approach to answer all components of this assessment including an introduction, body, and conclusion.
-
- Demonstrate that you have researched the relevant issues present.
-
- Show that you have read widely and analysed the gathered information, ensuring that it is applicable, evidence-based, and up to date.
Requirements:
In relation to using an academic approach:
-
- Your introduction will outline the key points of your essay.
- Your conclusion will provide an overall summary of your main points with no new information or references.
-
- It is an expectation that the references you use will be recent journal articles, five years or less since publication and reference books are to be no older than ten years, unless seminal works. Correct referencing is to be utilised throughout the body of work.
-
- A reference list is required at the end of your assessment.
-
- A title page is required that includes your name, student number, due date, word count, and the unit coordinator's name.
-
- The current American Psychological Association (APA) referencing style is a requirement. Please use the seventh edition American Psychological Association (APA) referencing style. The CQUniversity Academic Learning Centre has an online APA Referencing Style Guide.
Resources:
-
- Before commencing the assessment you are required to read the marking rubric for the assessment.
-
- You can use unit provided materials and other credible sources (e.g. journal articles, books, grey literature) to reference your argument. The quality and credibility of your sources are important.
-
- We recommend that you access your discipline-specific library guide: the Nursing and Midwifery Guide.
-
- We recommend you use EndNote to manage your citations and reference list. More information on how to use EndNote is available at the CQUniversity Library website.
-
- For information on academic communication please go to the Academic Learning Centre Moodle site. The Academic Communication section has many helpful resources including information for students with English as a second language.
-
- Submit a draft before the due date to review your Turnitin Similarity Score before making a final submission. Instructions are available here.
Submission:
-
Submission of the assessment is via Moodle, if you experience problems with your submission, please contact the CQU helpdesk on (07) 493099233 or (toll-free) on 1300 666.
-
Please note if the assessment is not clearly marked with your name and student number there may be delays in receiving your marked assessment feedback.
Support and extensions:
If you require an extension for this assessment you must request an extension prior to the due date unless there are special circumstances, you must then contact the unit coordinator for advice and direction.
Support and Contact Details: Unit Coordinator - Tanya Capper - Phone number (07) 3023 4249 and e-mail t.capper@cqu.edu.au
Week 10 Friday (21 May 2021) 11:55 pm AEST
Week 12 Friday (4 June 2021)
| HD | D | C | P | F | |
| Structure (15%) | |||||
Clear and succinct introduction that introduces the topic and outlines the direction of the paper. (5%) |
Clear and appropriate introduction that introduces the topic and outlines the direction of the paper. | Appropriate introduction that introduces the topic and outlines the direction of the paper. | Introduction is apparent and the topic is introduced but there is no clear direction to the paper. | No recognisable introduction-the topic is not introduced and/or there is no direction of the paper. | |
| Clear and succinct conclusion that outlines the main points and brings the argument to a logical close. (5%) | Clear and appropriate conclusion that outlines the main points and brings the argument to a close. | Conclusion outlines most of the main points and brings some sense of closure. | Conclusion apparent and outlines most of the main points and endeavours to bring the argument to a close; there may be some incongruity. | No recognisable conclusion-little reference to the main points and no clear conclusion to the paper. | |
Excellent presentation of assignment double spaced with 12-point font. Consistently accurate with spelling, grammar, and paragraph structure. (5%)
|
Well-presented assignment double spaced with 12-point font. 1 or 2 errors spelling, grammar, and paragraph structure. | Well-presented assignment double spaced with 12-point font. 3 or 4 consistent errors with spelling, grammar, and paragraph structure. | Well-presented assignment double spaced with 12-point font. 3 or 4 inconsistent errors with spelling, grammar, and paragraph structure. | Poorly presented assignment. Double spacing not used. 12-point font not used. Many inaccuracies with spelling, grammar, and paragraph structure. (> 5 errors). | |
| Approach & Argument (75%) | |||||
Content is clearly relevant to the topic; the approach comprehensively answers the questions and the argument proceeds logically and is within the set word limit. (10%) |
Content is relevant to the topic; the approach clearly answers the questions and the argument proceeds logically and is within the set word limit. | Content is appropriate and answers the questions and the argument for the most part proceeds logically and is within the set word limit. | Content answers the questions but the argument is at times repetitive or lacks cohesion and is within the set word limit with a 10% allowance (under or over the set limit). | Content is irrelevant and or does not answer the questions and the argument lacks cohesion. The word limit has not been adhered to, the word limit is over or under the 10% allowance. | |
| An articulate and comprehensive exploration of the concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. (20%) | An insightful and well-developed exploration of the concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. | A logical exploration of the concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. | A disjointed exploration of the concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. | An inadequate exploration of the concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. | |
| Articulate and comprehensive consideration and discussion of the legal and ethical consideration in relation to the given scenario. (25 %) | Insightful and well-developed consideration and discussion of the legal and ethical consideration in relation to the given scenario. | A logical consideration and discussion of the legal and ethical considerations in relation to the given scenario. | A disjointed consideration and discussion of the legal and ethical consideration in relation to the given scenario. | Inadequate consideration and discussion of the legal and ethical consideration in relation to the given scenario. | |
Comprehensive description of how you would manage this situation given that Lara was not listened to and not given the opportunity to provide informed consent. (20%)
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Well-developed description of how you would manage this situation given that Lara was not listened to and not given the opportunity to provide informed consent. | Broad description of how you would manage this situation given that Lara was not listened to and not given the opportunity to provide informed consent. | Minimal description of how you would manage this situation given that Lara was not listened to and not given the opportunity to provide informed consent. | Inadequate description of how you would manage this situation given that Lara was not listened to and not given the opportunity to provide informed consent. | |
| Referencing (10%) | |||||
| Consistently integrates up-to-date references to support and reflect all ideas, factual information, and quotations. (5%) | Generally integrates up-to-date references to support and reflect ideas, factual information, and quotations, with 1 or 2 exceptions. | Frequently integrates up-to-date references to support and reflect ideas, factual information, and quotations, with 3 or 4 exceptions. | Integrates up-to-date references to support and reflect ideas, factual information, and quotations, with 5 or 6 exceptions. | Fails to or infrequent attempts (>7 errors) to integrate up-to-date references to support and reflect ideas, factual information, and quotations. | |
| Consistently accurate with referencing. A minimum of 10 references used including 7 journal articles and relevant websites. (5%) |
1 or 2 consistent referencing errors identified. A minimum of 10 references used including 6 journal articles and relevant websites. |
3 or 4 consistent referencing errors identified. A minimum of 10 references used including 5 journal articles and relevant websites. | 3 or 4 inconsistent referencing errors identified. A minimum of 10 references used including 4 journal articles and relevant websites. | Many inaccuracies with referencing (>5). Less than 10 references used. Less than 4 journal articles not sourced. Relevant websites not included. | |
- Explore the different types of professional discourses that influence women's decision making in relation to their care.
- Demonstrate effective decision making within the midwifery framework.
- Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Information Literacy
- Ethical practice
As a CQUniversity student you are expected to act honestly in all aspects of your academic work.
Any assessable work undertaken or submitted for review or assessment must be your own work. Assessable work is any type of work you do to meet the assessment requirements in the unit, including draft work submitted for review and feedback and final work to be assessed.
When you use the ideas, words or data of others in your assessment, you must thoroughly and clearly acknowledge the source of this information by using the correct referencing style for your unit. Using others’ work without proper acknowledgement may be considered a form of intellectual dishonesty.
Participating honestly, respectfully, responsibly, and fairly in your university study ensures the CQUniversity qualification you earn will be valued as a true indication of your individual academic achievement and will continue to receive the respect and recognition it deserves.
As a student, you are responsible for reading and following CQUniversity’s policies, including the Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure. This policy sets out CQUniversity’s expectations of you to act with integrity, examples of academic integrity breaches to avoid, the processes used to address alleged breaches of academic integrity, and potential penalties.
What is a breach of academic integrity?
A breach of academic integrity includes but is not limited to plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion, cheating, contract cheating, and academic misconduct. The Student Academic Integrity Policy and Procedure defines what these terms mean and gives examples.
Why is academic integrity important?
A breach of academic integrity may result in one or more penalties, including suspension or even expulsion from the University. It can also have negative implications for student visas and future enrolment at CQUniversity or elsewhere. Students who engage in contract cheating also risk being blackmailed by contract cheating services.
Where can I get assistance?
For academic advice and guidance, the Academic Learning Centre (ALC) can support you in becoming confident in completing assessments with integrity and of high standard.
What can you do to act with integrity?
