Objectiveand rationale: The study sought to explore the experiences of midwives at selected hospitals in the Ho municipality regarding work-related musculoskeletal disorders, the predisposing factors, the impacts on them, and their coping strategies to mitigate the effects of work-related musculoskeletal disorders.MethodsThis study adopted a qualitative research approach with a phenomenological study design. Purposive sampling was employed in this study to select participants. Data was collected and recorded on voice recording devices from fifteen (15) midwives through an interview using a semi-structured interview guide. Data was manually transcribed and analyzed using thematic content analysis.ResultsThe four emerging themes include: the lived experiences of midwives regarding musculoskeletal disorders, predisposing factors contributing to musculoskeletal disorders, impact of musculoskeletal disorders, and coping strategies of midwives. These themes were further expanded by their sub-themes in describing musculoskeletal conditions, onset, understaffing of midwives, awkward posture assumption during care delivery, limited logistics, struggle with quality of life, impaired work performance, rest and good body mechanics, and teamwork.ConclusionTo lower the rate of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among midwives and increase work efficiency and productivity, educational programs on prevention and coping mechanisms for musculoskeletal disorders should be made mandatory for midwives.
Introduction Obstetric emergencies are sudden, unexpected life-threatening medical conditions that occur during pregnancy, labour, delivery or puerperium and are challenging moments because of frightening and traumatic experiences. Obstetric emergencies, which threaten the well-being of the woman and the unborn child, account for the majority of causes of maternal death. Objective The study sought to explore Midwives’ experiences in obstetric emergencies in the Kwahu West Municipality of Ghana Methods A phenomenological study design with a qualitative approach was employed to explore the midwives’ experiences in the management of obstetrics. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. The sample size of 13 was reached upon data saturation. A semi-structured interview guide was used to interview midwives who have experienced and managed obstetric emergencies. The obtained data was transcribed and analysed using a thematic analysis approach. Results Overall, five themes and 13 subthemes emerged. The emerging themes encompass factors influencing midwives’ experiences in managing obstetric emergencies, Reactions of midwives during obstetric emergencies, Challenges of midwives in managing obstetric emergencies, Healthcare challenging factors, and Client-centred limitations. Conclusion It is evident that midwives play a critical role in addressing obstetric emergencies, often being the frontline healthcare providers in such situations. Their experiences shed light on both the challenges they face and the strategies they employ to provide effective care under demanding circumstances. The findings highlight the need for further investment in training and resources for midwives, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare services may be limited.
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