BABIES and their mothers are at risk with midwives claiming they are stretched too thin.
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On the wards, babies are not counted in the patient numbers, doubling the workload for Tamworth midwives.
Danaya Fitzsimmons is a midwife herself, and said a lack of resources at the hospital is having serious impacts on family relationships.
“Motherhood in general is such an imperative time in someone’s life and it has long-ranging implications on early development,” she said.
“We need to support these ladies early and help them build strong foundations and families so they feel confident and raise children that are well-adjusted.”
Midwives can care for up to 10 mothers and their newborns on any given day in NSW hospitals.
Take into account just the necessary support with breastfeeding and bathing for 10 babies, there’s little time left to create trusting relationships with the mothers.
It’s those relationships that are vital to mothers feeling comfortable to come forward with personal or difficult questions about parenting, Ms Fitzsimmons said.
“Just being able to sit with the mother, talk to them about their birth experience and answer any questions they need,” she said.
“If you take that time away from them you’re taking away what they should be getting out of maternity services.”
Under the current system, ongoing unfilled vacancies put extra strain on hospital resources. Midwives want at least one midwife to three mothers in postnatal wards.
From 2012 to 2018, another 600 nurses and midwives were hired across the district.
Hunter New England Health rural director Susan Heyman said patients can continue to have confidence in Tamworth hospital.
“We value our nurses and midwives and acknowledge the vital and challenging work they do to support our community,” she said.
“NSW Health determines the staffing requirements in maternity services based on the needs of women for midwifery care throughout pregnancy, labour and the postnatal period.”
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Lisa Bacon is soon to give birth and the ratio issue concerns her despite having experience with a newborn.
“The first time around you have no experience, I found breastfeeding very hard,” Mrs Bacon said.
“It’s important to have that support and if they’re understaffed they will struggle.”
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
