Design of an Instrument to Measure Midwives’ Workloads Based on Nursing Interventions Classification

Abstract

Objective: to design a qualitative and quantitative scale for measuring specific workloads for obstetricgynecological nurses (midwives) within the delivery unit and based on the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC). Method: this is a mixed qualitative study through focus groups and quantitative with real measurements of NIC times, descriptive and cross-sectional. From September 2020 to May 2021, an extensive bibliographic search, mapping, ad hoc scale development and configuration of three focus groups were carried out to agree on scale design. Moreover, a comparison was carried out on the subjective perception of the time spent providing care (NIC) during the delivery process by focus groups with respect to times actually measured between March and April 2021 in a delivery unit. Results: the qualitative data obtained in focus groups were analyzed and related, agreeing on the ad hoc measuring instrument's final structure and the importance of having this measuring instrument representative of their work, with standardized language adapted to real health demands. Furthermore, when comparing the subjective and real execution times of each of the NIC, we found a significant correlation when presenting different mean execution times with a variation of 13 minutes. Conclusion: the midwives in this study determined the measurement instrument construct validity for their workloads. DESCRIPTORS:Midwife. Maternity Ward. Labor. Standard nursing terminology. Administration of health services. Health personnel management.