Registered Midwifery

Program Overview

Registered Midwifery programs prepare students to become licensed midwives who provide comprehensive healthcare services to women throughout their pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum period. These programs focus on the unique needs of pregnant women, childbirth, and newborn care.

Duration

The duration of Registered Midwifery program runs for three years and includes a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and hands-on clinical practice

Entry Requirements

The minimum entry requirements for school leavers into this programme shall be:

 Five (5) ‘0’ levels at credit level or better of the Zambian General Certificate of Education or its equivalent as follows:

  • Three (3) ‘0’ level compulsory subjects in
  • English language
  • Mathematics and
  • Any science subject
  • Any two (2) subjects
  • Minimum entry age shall be 16 years
  • All candidates should pass both personal interviews and written test.

Curriculum

1. Pre-Midwifery Courses: These prerequisite courses cover subjects such as anatomy and physiology, sociology, health communication, public health nursing, nutrition, microbiology, smart-care, psychology, and professional practice. These courses provide the basic foundational knowledge necessary for further midwifery studies.
2. Midwifery Core Courses: These courses focus on essential topics related to midwifery practice, including:
a)Obstetrics and Midwifery care: Understanding the roles and responsibilities of a midwife, ethics, and professional practice.

b) Antenatal Care: Addressing prenatal care, normal pregnancy, and the assessment of maternal and fetal well-being.
c) Intrapartum Care: Covering labor and childbirth management, pain management options, and emergency obstetric care.
d) Neonatology: Exploring postpartum care, breastfeeding support, newborn assessments, and early newborn care.
e) Reproductive Health: Addressing contraception, family planning, sexual health, and counseling for women and families.
f) Gynaecology: Examining high-risk pregnancies, obstetric emergencies, and appropriate interventions.
g) Midwifery Research and Evidence-Based Practice: Developing skills in research, critical analysis, and applying evidence-based practices to midwifery care.
3. Clinical Practice: Registered Midwifery programs require students to complete supervised clinical practice in various settings, including hospitals, birthing centers, and community health clinics. This practical experience allows students to apply theoretical knowledge, develop skills in childbirth assistance, and provide comprehensive midwifery care to women throughout their reproductive journey.
Licensure Exam Preparation: Upon completing a Registered Midwifery program, graduates must pass the national licensure examination to become a registered midwife. This exam assesses the competencies and knowledge required to provide safe and quality midwifery care.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of Registered Midwifery programs can pursue careers as registered midwives, working independently or as part of a healthcare team, in various settings. This may include hospitals, birthing centers, home birth practices, community health clinics, or international health organizations. Additionally, some registered midwives may choose to further specialize or pursue advanced degrees in midwifery or related healthcare fields.

Continuing Education

Just like other healthcare professions, midwifery requires continuous learning and professional development. Registered midwives are encouraged to engage in continuing education activities, conferences, and workshops to stay updated with new practices, research, and advancements in midwifery care.