Ethics in Midwifery

This book examines the principles and realities of ethics in midwifery practice today. It explains basic ethical theory, looking at how dilemmas occur and the ethical bases on which conflicts can be resolved. Through a series of case studies, options and issues for consideration are reviewed, particularly in areas of increasing concern and debate such as confidentiality, autonomy, screening, abortion, assisted conception and withholding treatment.

This book will be of value to all students and practicing midwives who need to understand the principles and practice of ethics, especially how to apply ethical thought and action in their own day-to-day work.

Explains clearly ethical theory, especially how dilemmas occur, the bases for ethical decisions and how conflicts may be resolved

Outlines specifically how ethical principles can be applied in real-life practice, and in situations which may involve midwives in team decisions

Outlines detailed case studies which illustrate key ethical dilemmas and ways to consider resolutions within these

Explores and clearly delineates the ethical dimensions of the midwifes role (new chapter in the second edition)

Includes a new chapter on conscientious objection to participation in abortion

Has greater focus on assisted conception and issues surrounding this, as this becomes a topic of more widespread interest

Adds a new chapter on withholding and withdrawing treatment, mainly in relation to neonates, again to reflect an area of growing concern and controversy

All of Part One the general foundations are updated and revised

New chapter on ethical dimensions of the midwifes role, with an emphasis on the midwife as the researcher

New case in the confidentiality chapter

New case in the accountability chapter on client abuse, with a focus on the accountability of the midwife who knew about this but did nothing

New case in the autonomy and consent chapter looking at enforced caesarian section, with a focus on ethics rather than the law (where the focus usually lies in reviewing this area)

New chapter on assisted conception, replacing resource allocation which looked only briefly at this

New chapter on withholding and withdrawing treatment relating mainly to neonates