A survey of Australian midwives: Experts in nitrous oxide administration within the peripartum setting

There is little documented evidence of midwives’ perspectives regarding the use of nitrous oxide in the peripartum period. Nitrous oxide is an inhaled gas used widely in the peripartum period; usually offered and managed by midwives. Explore midwives’ knowledge, perceptions, and practices of facilitating women’s use of nitrous oxide in the peripartum period. An exploratory cross-sectional survey design was used. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics; open-ended responses underwent template analysis. Midwives (n = 121) working in three Australian settings reported regularly recommending the use of nitrous oxide and high levels of knowledge and confidence supporting its use. There was a significant association between midwifery experience, and perspectives on women’s capacity to use nitrous effectively (p = 0.004); and desire for refresher education (p