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 - 2022
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 Feedback
Tanya is a wonderful teacher and I thoroughly enjoyed learning from her throughout this degree.
To continue to ensure content is delivered in an interesting and interactive way.
Feedback from SUTE Feedback
Great interaction from lecturers and informational sources
To continue to provide weekly lectures to accompany the study guides in order to help students understand the complex legal concepts.
Feedback from SUTE Feedback
I would like to bring attention to the three biggest assignments of the term 4 coursework course being due within a week of each other. This put a lot of stress on myself trying to finish this degree.
To ensure in the future that larger assessment tasks are well spaced to enable students to keep on top of the workload.
- 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
Week 3 blog post due.
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
Week 6 blog post due.
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
Week 9 blog post due.
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
Assessment One: Online Discussion
Type: Written Blog Entries
Due: Each Friday at 23:55 pm of Weeks 3, 6, 9, and 12
Total weighting: 30%
Length of Post/Discussion: 300-400 words per blog post
Unit Coordinator: Dr. Tanya Capper.
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.
Aim:
The aim of this assessment is to encourage discussion with your peers, exchange ideas and thoughts, and share experiences to date related to the unit content. By participating in the online discussion, you will better understand and explore the legal and ethical parameters that frame midwifery practice, the role and importance of professional accountability, and the different types of professional discourses that influence women's decision making in relation to their care.
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 11:55pm AEST.
Topics:
Week 3 Topic: Due: 25/03/2022 at 23.55pm
Case Study 1
You are a new graduate midwife and work with Polly in the postnatal ward of a large tertiary hospital. Polly gained registration as a midwife at the same time as you and has been transitioning well into her role as a graduate midwife. You have a good existing relationship with her and are subsequently Facebook friends. One morning you are scrolling through Facebook and see that Polly had been discussing the personal details of one of the women she has been caring for on the ward. In particular, she is discussing the woman’s partner, having had a previous relationship with him herself.
Let’s Discuss:
What are the issues here? How does 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: 22/04/2022 at 23.55pm
Case Study 2
As you are arriving at work one afternoon you spot Jenny, a woman that is visibly pregnant exchanging cash for a small package that she promptly conceals under her clothing. During handover you discover that Jenny is an inpatient and is being monitored closely due to IUGR and decreased fetal movements. There has been no disclosure of substance misuse documented in the notes.
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: 13/05/2022 at 23.55pm
Case Study 3
You are working as a graduate midwife in the antenatal clinic undertaking the booking-in appointment for Paula, a 27-year-old woman who is having her first baby. When you ask Paula 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 history of childhood sexual abuse.
Let’s Discuss:
What may your thoughts and professional responsibilities be in this situation? What action would you take? How would you proceed in this situation? Any other concerns?
Week 12 Topic: Due: 03/06/2022 at 23.55pm
Case Study 4:
You are a newly graduated midwife working in the birth suite on a night shift. As you reach the handover board you hear two midwives discussing one of the midwifery students. They are saying they would make sure she doesn’t get a birth tonight and hope she fails her course whilst laughing loudly.
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 a meaningful contribution to the discussion. If you are citing others work in your post, you will be required to reference this using American Psychological Association (APA) 7th edition style.
The Unit co-ordinator will collate your responses and complete the final submission.
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 of discussion arises that is challenging for you, please contact the Unit Coordinator for private correspondence.
Week 12 Friday (3 June 2022) 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 (17 June 2022)
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 is 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 limited 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 is evidenced 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 a descriptive discussion. | Discussion is poorly developed or absent. Absent 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 consistently made to other students’ discussions. Posts for every discussion topic. |
Postings are made in a timely manner providing other students with the opportunity to respond. Postings largely respond directly to course content material and demonstrate a critical and thoughtful approach. Mindful connections are made to other students’ discussions in the majority of postings. Posts for every discussion topic. |
Postings are made in a timely manner providing other students with the opportunity to respond. Postings often respond directly to course content material and demonstrate a thoughtful approach. Connections are made to other students’ discussions in some of the postings. Posts for every discussion topic. | Postings are made in a timely manner providing other students with the opportunity to respond. Postings occasionally respond directly to course content material. However, could demonstrate a more thoughtful approach. Connections are occasionally made to other students’ discussions in the 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 in the majority of the time do not respond directly to course content material. Connections are not made to other students’ 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
Due Date: Friday of Week 4 – 01/04/2022 at 23:55 hrs
Weighting: 30%
Length: 2000 words (+ or - 10%)
Unit Coordinator: Dr. Tanya Capper
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.
Aim:
The aim of this assessment is to enable you to demonstrate your understanding of the concepts learned so far during 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 Instructions:
You are writing an academic based on a provided clinical scenario. You will explore the general concept of informed consent and its application to contemporary midwifery practice. You will also consider and discuss the legal and ethical considerations related to the provided case study and then describe how you would manage this situation as the new graduate midwife.
Case Study (Consent)
You are a newly graduated midwife caring for Michelle in the birth suite at 38 weeks gestation. Michelle has prepared an extensive birth plan which states that she wishes to have a physiological third stage of labour. As Michelle reaches full dilatation, you alert the other members of the midwifery team that you will be ringing the bell for assistance at the time of birth and inform them of Michelle’s wishes regarding the management of the third stage. As Michelle’s baby is birthing, your senior colleague Martha enters the room carrying a syringe of Oxytocin and administers it without saying a word.
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 Michelle’s wishes were not adhered to, and she did not provide informed consent to the administration of Syntocinon.
Please Note:
•There is a 10% allowance over or under the provided word count which is a total of 2000 words.
•It is an expectation that the references used 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, due date, word count, and the unit coordinator's name.
•American Psychological Association (APA) 7th Edition referencing style is a requirement. Poor referencing is unacceptable at postgraduate level study. For more information on the correct referencing style please visit: https://delivery-cqucontenthub.stylelabs.cloud/api/public/content/apa-referencing-style.pdf?v=51e1aea7
•Before commencing the assessment, you are required to read the marking rubric for the assessment.
•If you require an extension for the assessment, you must request an extension prior to the assessment due date, unless there are special circumstances, then you must contact the coordinator for advice and direction.
•For assessment extension requests - please go to the Assignment Extension Request toolbar on the MDWF13004 Moodle page.
•Submission of the assessment is via Moodle, if you experience 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 number there may be delays in receiving the marked assessment feedback.
Support and Contact Details: Course Coordinator - Tanya Capper - Phone number (07) 3023 4249 and e-mail t.capper@cqu.edu.au
Week 4 Friday (1 Apr 2022) 11:55 pm AEST
Vacation Week Friday (15 Apr 2022)
| 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, 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 Michelle’s wishes were not adhered to, and she did not provide informed consent. (20%)
|
Well-developed description of how you would manage this situation given that Michelle’s wishes were not adhered to, and she did not provide informed consent. | A broad description of how you would manage this situation given that Michelle’s wishes were not adhered to, and she did not provide informed consent. | Minimal description of how you would manage this situation given that Michelle’s wishes were not adhered to, and she did not provide informed consent. | Inadequate description of how you would manage this situation given that Michelle’s wishes were not adhered to, and she did not 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
Due Date: Friday of Week 10 - 20/05/2022 at 23:55 hrs
Weighting: 40% weighting
Length: 2500-word essay (+/- 10%)
Unit Coordinator: Dr. Tanya Capper
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.
Aim:
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 Instructions:
You will write an essay that, based on the case study provided discusses the risk of having a vaginal birth after a previous LSCS. You will explore the legal and ethical considerations related to the case study scenario, and finally, you will develop a plan of care for the women in the case study based on an appropriate ethical decision-making framework.
Case Study
You are the midwife caring for Fiona, a 34-year-old mother of four children, at 25 weeks gestation. Despite Fiona’s last 3 babies being born via Lower Segment Caesarean Section (LSCS), Fiona wishes to birth this baby at home vaginally. Many of her friends have birthed their babies at home and have convinced her that she should be doing the same.
Please write an academic essay relating to the above case study that addresses the following:
Discuss the risks of vaginal birth at home after having had three previous LSCS’s.
Explore the legal and ethical considerations in this scenario.
Based upon an appropriate ethical decision-making framework, discuss the approach you would take to the care of Fiona with reference to the ICM Code of Ethics (ICM, 2014) and Code of Conduct for Midwives (NMBA, 2018).
Formatting according to academic conventions:
1. Your essay is to follow academic conventions of structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion.
2. Your introduction will outline the key content of your essay (the questions it will answer). Please attempt to incorporate the case study into the introduction.
3. The body of the paper will cover all the elements of your discussion.
4. Your conclusion will provide an overall summary of your main points with no new information or references.
Please Note:
•There is a 10% allowance over or under the provided word count which is a total of 2500 words.
•It is an expectation that the references used 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 which should be on a new page.
•A title page is required that includes your name, student number, due date, word count, and the unit coordinator's name.
•American Psychological Association (APA) 7th Edition referencing style is a requirement. Poor referencing is unacceptable at postgraduate level study. For more information on the correct referencing style please visit: https://delivery-cqucontenthub.stylelabs.cloud/api/public/content/apa-referencing-style.pdf?v=51e1aea7
•Before commencing the assessment, you are required to read the marking rubric for the assessment.
•If you require an extension for the assessment you must request an extension prior to the assessment due date unless there are special circumstances, then you must contact the unit coordinator for advice and direction.
•For assessment extension requests - please go to the Assignment Extension Request toolbar on the MDWF13004 Moodle page.
•Submission of the assessment is via Moodle, if you experience 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 number there may be delays in receiving the marked assessment feedback.
Support and Contact Details: Course Coordinator - Tanya Capper - Phone number (07) 3023 4249 and e-mail t.capper@cqu.edu.au
Week 10 Friday (20 May 2022) 11:55 pm AEST
Exam Week Friday (17 June 2022)
| 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 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 well over or under the 10% allowance | |
| An articulate and comprehensive discussion surrounding the risks of vaginal birth at home after having had three previous LSCS’s. (15%) | Insightful and well-developed discussion surrounding the risks of vaginal birth at home after having had three previous LSCS’s. | A logical discussion surrounding the risks of vaginal birth at home after having had three previous LSCS’s. | A disjointed discussion surrounding the risks of vaginal birth at home after having had three previous LSCS’s. | An inadequate discussion surrounding the risks of vaginal birth at home after having had three previous LSCS’s. | |
Comprehensive and critical exploration of the legal and ethical considerations in this scenario. (20%)
|
Well-developed exploration of the legal and ethical considerations in this scenario. | Broad exploration of the legal and ethical considerations in this scenario. | Minimal exploration of the legal and ethical considerations in this scenario. | Inadequate exploration of the legal and ethical considerations in this scenario. | |
Clear, coherent, discussion based upon an appropriate ethical decision-making framework, which explores the approach you would take in the provision of care for Fiona with reference to the ICM Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct for Midwives. (30%)
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A clear and relevant discussion based upon an appropriate ethical decision-making framework, which explores the approach you would take in the provision of care for Fiona with reference to the ICM Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct for Midwives. | A logical discussion based upon an appropriate ethical decision-making framework, which explores the approach you would take in the provision of care for Fiona with reference to the ICM Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct for Midwives. | Satisfactory discussion based upon an appropriate ethical decision-making framework, which explores the approach you would take in the provision of care for Fiona with reference to the ICM Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct for Midwives. | Poor understanding of the topic. Inadequate discussion based upon an appropriate ethical decision-making framework, which explores the approach you would take in the provision of care for Fiona with reference to the ICM Code of Ethics and Code of Conduct for Midwives. | |
| 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. | Occasionally 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?
