Job Satisfaction Among Midwives in High-Intervention Birthing Rooms: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study

Abstract

Objectives: To identify the factors influencing the job satisfaction of midwives working in birthing rooms with a medium to high level of obstetric intervention. Methods: A qualitative phenomenological-hermeneutic design based on Heideggerian philosophy was implemented. A study involving 25 participants, midwives, and resident nurses (RINs) was conducted. Residents were included to enrich the analysis with their critical perspectives with regard to interventional procedures and exposure to acts of obstetric violence. Convenience sampling was used. Data were collected from four focus groups in three hospitals in the region and one in-depth interview between 30 September 2022 and 23 June 2023. The testimonies were recorded and transcribed verbatim, and data analysis was carried out using an inductive-deductive approach. The triangulation of data and researchers was used to minimise potential bias. Results: The participants highlighted the following key dimensions or areas that contribute to midwives' job satisfaction in the labour and birthing room: maternal satisfaction, professional competencies, multidisciplinary team, working conditions, and interventions during childbirth. Conclusions: These findings may inform healthcare management strategies to reduce burnout and improve working conditions in maternity care settings.