Continuity of care challenging entrenched views of cultural difference

Introduction: Midwifery students undertake continuity of care experiences are part of their educational requirements. To enhance the learning journey for midwifery students, undertaking continuity of care experience reflective journals are utilised. Aim: The aim of this study was to challenge the entrenched views of cultural difference. Methods: An analysis of twenty eight midwifery students’ reflective journals was undertaken. A total of 300 continuity of care journals were reviewed. Within these journals 30 women from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds were included. Low risk ethical approval was received to undertake this review. Results: The findings from the analysis identified that for some midwifery students there was little consideration of cultural factors when caring for women from CALD backgrounds. The other midwifery students were very cognisant of factors that may need to be considered when providing care to women form CALD backgrounds. Some highlighting that their perceived views of women from CALD backgrounds was challenged when they provided one to one continuity of care for women form CALD backgrounds. Conclusion and implications: These findings build on previous literature review (Williamson and Harrison, 2010) that questions a cognitive approach to culture. The midwifery students whose perceived concept of cultural difference was challenged have recognised the importance of an individual approach to all women regardless of the backgrounds. The presenters will discuss how this analysis will continue to inform their practice as educators.