Lecturers’ perceptions on student midwives’ competence in symphysis fundal height measurement

Abstract

Background: Performing midwifery care requires competence and confidence because of the profession’s emphasis on independent functioning and professional responsibility. The student midwives generally can manage to plot the symphysis fundal height measurements on charts correctly, but their real learning need is to accurately interpret what the measurements meant in relation to their patients’ due dates and overall pregnancy health. This interpretation is essential for the early detection of potential complications.
Aim: To explore and describe lecturers’ perceptions of student midwives’ competence and confidence in performing symphysis fundal height measurements, plotting, and interpreting the results.
Setting: The study took place in KwaZulu-Natal College of Nursing, South Africa.
Methods: A descriptive, qualitative design was used. Data were collected using focus group discussions from August 2023 to September 2023. Thematic analysis method was used to analyse data.
Results: Four main themes emerged namely, perceived significance of symphysis fundal height measurement, the perceived prerequisites enabling competence and confidence, the perceived challenges and barriers to competence and confidence, and the recommendations made to improve the competence and confidence of student midwives.
Conclusion: It was the perception of the lecturers that improved competence and confidence of student midwives in the measurement, plotting, and interpretation of symphysis fundal height could lead to the correct interpretation and identification of high-risk pregnancies.
Contribution: The findings will guide the curriculum developers and policy makers in the formulation of symphysis fundal height measurement protocols and standard operating procedures, to improve and standardise midwifery skills in this regard.