Factors Influencing Attitude and Adherence toward Principles of Medical Ethics among Midwives and Midwifery Students in University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: The professional ethics of midwives at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) in Rivers State, Nigeria, represent a crucial aspect of healthcare delivery, influencing both patient care and educational frameworks within midwifery. This study investigated factors influencing attitudes and adherence to principles of medical ethics among practising midwives and midwifery students. Methodology: A cross-sectional quantitative design was adopted to survey 124 participants drawn using purposive sampling. The participants were predominantly aged between 18 and 45 years, with a minor segment over 46. The majority, 89.5%, were female, reflecting a significant gender imbalance, while males constituted only 10.5%. Data collection was carried out using a questionnaire, which included items on demographic data and various ethical considerations in midwifery practice. Mean and standard deviation were employed for data analysis. Results: Findings from the study revealed a positive attitude (3.41±0.773) and a strong adherence to medical ethics principle (3.39±0.642). The most challenging factors to adherence were balancing conflicting ethical principles in complex cases(3.12 ± 0.694) and workplace culture and policies (3.01 ± 0.716) while regular training and updates on medical ethics (3.64 ± 0.483) and recognition and appreciation for ethical behaviour (3.45 ± 0.603) as the most effective ways to overcome the challenges. Conclusion: Despite the positive attitude and high level of adherence to medical, challenges remain. As such, continuous education and reinforcement of ethical principles are imperative to ensure that these standards are not only understood theoretically but are also consistently applied in clinical practice.