By definition, midwifery means the practice by a midwife of giving care to a woman during the prenatal period, labor and delivery, and the postpartum period, as well as caring for the newborn. The term “midwife” applies not only to certified nurse-midwives but to direct entry midwives. This job description will address only the direct entry midwife; for information regarding certified nurse-midwives contact the Texas Board of Nursing. A direct entry midwife may not administer prescription drugs without a physician’s order or utilize any type of surgical instrument. An Informed Choice and Disclosure form revealing education and continuing education requirements met by the midwife, procedures which are prohibited and arrangements with local physicians for the management of emergencies, as well as the midwife’s experience, must be understood and signed by each client.
