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Table 1 Definition of terminology used for this study

From: Assessment of midwifery care providers intrapartum care competencies, in four sub-Saharan countries: a mixed-method study protocol

Term

Definition

Conceptual characteristics

Behaviour*

Observable conduct towards other people or activities that expresses a competency. Behaviours are durable, trainable and measurable

Observable attribute, often applied in combination, i.e. several behaviours may contribute towards one competency

Competency*

The observable ability of a person, integrating knowledge, skills, and attitudes in their performance of tasks. Competencies are durable, trainable and, through the expression of behaviours, measurable

Not time limited, i.e. durable through multiple activities

Can develop/improve or erode over time

In-service training

Training that is given to employees during the course of their employment to update their professional knowledge, skills and competence

 

Knowledge*

Understanding of, or information about a subject. The informational base of competence and skills

An unobservable attribute of competence inferred through performance or determined through testing

Midwifery care providers

Providers of midwifery care are competent maternal and newborn health professionals educated, trained and regulated to national and/or international standards. They provide skilled, evidence-based and compassionate care to women, newborns and families. Providers of midwifery care:

 
 

Promote and facilitate normal physiological, social and cultural processes throughout the childbearing continuum with a continuity of care philosophy

 
 

Seek to prevent and manage maternal and newborn complications

 
 

Consult and refer to other health services where required

 
 

Respect women’s individual circumstances and views, providing sensitive and dignified care

 

Pre-service training

A formal learning programme which takes place prior to and as a prequisite for employment in a service setting

 

Skill*

A specific cognitive or motor ability that is typically developed through training and practice

Observable (physical) and unobservable (cognitive) attribute, often applied in combination, i.e. several skills may contribute towards one competency and/or activity

  1. *Source: Mills JA, Middleton JW, Schafer A, Fitzpatrick S, Short S, Cieza A. Proposing a re-conceptualisation of competency framework terminology for health: a scoping review. Hum Resour Health. 2020 Feb 21;18(1):15