Exploring the inter-professional experiences of student nurses and midwives to facilitate better outcomes for mothers with a learning disability in maternity services: a qualitative case study

Aim:
The aim of this study is to explore the experiences of student learning disability nurses and student midwives in supporting mothers with an intellectual disability.
Background:
The Ockenden Report (2022), an independent review into maternity care in the United Kingdom, highlighted workforce challenges and inequalities in maternity services. The report specifically highlighted the need for mothers with intellectual disabilities to have individualised care and support. Public Health England (2021) suggested that continuity of supporting staff is beneficial to mothers with intellectual disabilities. Additionally, specific support is needed for mothers with a learning disability.
Methods:
This case study adopted a qualitative approach by interviewing current student learning disability nurses and student midwives through purposive and convenience sampling. Data were gathered by conducting semi-structured interviews. Data was analysed thematically through Braun and Clarke’s (2021) six step process.
Findings:
There were three overarching themes identified from the analysed data: Knowledge and Skills; Curriculum, and Exposure and Support when caring for mothers with an intellectual disability.
Conclusion:
The findings prompt inter-professional working in maternity services, which in turn can facilitate better outcomes for mothers with an intellectual disability. It may also facilitate the development of materials to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and clarify misconceptions related to supporting mothers with an intellectual disability.