Nurse Midwives


Health Science > Nurse Midwives > Working Conditions
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Nurse Midwives

Nurse Midwives - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, nurse midwives:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Have a very high degree of social interaction. They work with mothers, infants, family members, and other medical professionals throughout the day.
  • Communicate by telephone, e-mail, and in person on a daily basis. They also write letters and memos, but less frequently.
  • Are greatly responsible for the health and safety of their patients.
  • Usually work as part of a team and are responsible for the work done by other midwives assistants.
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  • Often deal with conflict situations in which patients and family members may be stressed or angry.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Almost always work indoors.
  • Are exposed to the diseases and infections of their patients on a regular basis.
  • Often wear safety attire, such as medical gloves and masks.
  • Are frequently exposed to contaminants such as dust or odors.
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  • Come into close physical contact with patients.
  • Are often exposed to sound and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable.

Work Performance

  • Must be very exact in their work. Errors could seriously harm the health of patients, including newborn infants.
  • Make decisions on a daily basis that substantially impact patients and their families. They rarely consult others before making these decisions.
  • Work in a competitive environment where they must meet daily deadlines.
  • Repeat the same mental and physical tasks.

Hours/Travel

  • Often work more than 40 hours per week.
  • May work a regular or irregular schedule. Most work a set schedule.
  • Usually are on-call and may work weekends and nights.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.