Eating and Drinking in Labour

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Eating and Drinking in Labour Eating and drinking in labour is a controversial issue for some women.

However, most women wish to eat and drink in early labour. Although

some women do not want to eat, particularly in the later stages, but

midwives do understands the implication of eating and drinking or

fasting in labour. Hence, it is important for the midwife to be

effective in her role encouraging women to eating and drinking in

labour. This essay aim to reflect on the skill practiced in meeting

the need of a labouring woman in encouragement to eating and drinking

in labour. A woman looked after will be called Kate for the purpose of

this essay. The author will explain the physiological effect of

restricting eating and drinking in labour. The policy on eating and

drinking will be discussed. A review of what have been learnt from

available evidence on eating and will be analysed. A conclusion will

be drawn. The Gibbs cycle (1988) will be employed as a reflective

framework. Smith (1995) explained that reflection is an intellectual

and affective activity through which individuals explore their

experiences in order to develop new understanding and appreciation.

Confidentiality is maintained throughout by not disclosing the

identity of the woman. Pseudonym will be used. This complies with the

Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) code of Professional Pr...

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