2ND-STAGE POSITIONING IN NURSE-MIDWIFERY PRACTICES - PART 2 - FACTORSAFFECTING USE

This, the second of a two-part article, describes the findings of a na tional survey of practicing certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) regarding factors that affect the use of eight second-stage maternal positions. Lower CNM self-reported autonomy scores were associated with the use o f the lithotomy and dorsal supine positions; maternal preference and h igher CNM self-reported autonomy scores were associated with the use o f the nonlithotomy positions. The use of nonlithotomy positions is one nontechnologic way to enhance the normal process of birth. (C) 1998 b y the American College of Nurse-Midwives.