An exploration of midwives' attitudes to health promotion.
OBJECTIVE
To explore midwives' attitudes to health promotion.


METHODS
Quantitative study, data collected using self-completed postal questionnaires in 1996.


METHODS
The North West of England, UK.


METHODS
182 senior midwives who were working in hospital and community settings.


RESULTS
The patterns of views towards health promotion approaches were complex as midwives stated that they preferred societal approaches but worked in approaches that focused on the individual. Health promotion methods that centre on the individual were also preferred. Clinical practice base, educational qualifications and age were influential in midwives' opinions.


CONCLUSIONS
There is a need for further clarification of the midwife's understanding of their role as a health promoter. Educators should ensure that health promotion is explained within its practical context and there should be opportunity for midwives to develop skills of lobbying, negotiating, implementing and policy planning. Liaison with other disciplines should be fostered to understand their roles and develop joint health promotion strategies. There is a need for further research exploring midwives' opinions from a qualitative perspective.
Furber
C M
CM
University of Manchester, School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting, Gateway House, Piccadilly South, Manchester, M60 7LP, UK. Christine.Furber@man.ac.uk
D000328:Adult; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D004739:England; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D008880:Midwifery / Q000592:standards; D009721:Nurse Midwives / Q000592:standards; D024802:Nurse's Role; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016387:Women's Health