Perceived Challenges Likely To Confront Nursing and Midwifery as Autonomous Professions in Ghana and the Way Forward

Abstract

Aim: To explore the perceived challengeslikely to confront nursing and midwifery as autonomous professions in Ghana and the way forward. Design: Ten nurses and midwives from four main hospitals in the Tamale Metropolis, the respondents were from senior nursing and midwifery officer ranks. Methods: A qualitative cross-sectional in-depth interview was employed for the study among senior nurses and midwives in the hospitals in the Tamale Metropolis. Results: Participants identified specificity of professional focus and split in training arrangement as the main cause of perceived autonomy and challenge. For instance, there are still differential gaps in the training and practice functions of nurses and midwives, different examinations and clear distinctions in job descriptions of both professions. Power of association culture was considered a contributory factor. The study concludes that regardless, nursing and midwifery are two distinct but closely related professions that have similar characteristics and natural fusion of learning and work.