Labour ward midwives’ experiences of remote video calls with women during early labour

Abstract

Background

The shortage of midwives makes it difficult to meet healthcare needs in early labour, a phase when professional support and personal evaluation are crucial. Digitalisation has transformed healthcare, offering new communication and support methods. Although still uncommon, the use of a virtual waiting room with video calls by midwives during early labour could provide vital support for pregnant women and their partners. This study aimed to describe labour ward midwives’ experiences of remote video calls with women during early labour.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study with seven semi-structured interviews followed by a qualitative content analysis was conducted.

Results

The findings revealed that remote video calls enabled the midwives to work flexibly with chosen working hours and become involved in a challenging new e-function. They interacted with the women and their partners and experienced that they created a supportive relationship and simultaneously gained an overview of the situation. They felt secure in their professional role when providing the necessary care and had confidence in their competence.

Conclusion

The potential benefits of integrating remote video calls into midwives’ tasks during early labour care include flexible working hours and fostering supportive relationships with women and their partners at home.