INDIGENOUS BIRTH SUPPORT WORKER

Cultural Liaison
Provide connection to Elders, Cultural Advisors or Traditional Healers
Function as a liaison to support language, tradition, or culture in communication between the client and staff. Model culturally safe practices.
Patient Care
Alongside nurses, physicians and midwives support Indigenous women during their prenatal, birth and early post-partum periods.
When possible, meet with women to discuss their birth preferences prior to active labour.
Provide input into women?s care plan and advocate for the women?s birth plans.
Provide women, their partners and families with emotional support, physical comfort, and assistance in obtaining information before, during or just after childbirth.
Facilitate translation if required.
Document in the client?s medical record as required.
Actively participate in team rounds and handover.
Related Key Activities
Participate on various Maternal Services Committees to represent the needs of Indigenous women.
Participate in data collection and research as appropriate.
Coordinate with the First Nations and Metis Health Services to ensure culturally responsive care.
Utilize the First Nations and Metis Health Service as personal and professional support as you support Indigenous families and help to create a culturally responsive workplace.
Preferred Qualifications
Certificate or enrolled in Indigenous Birth Support Worker Program or Certificate in Birth Doula Studies Program
Basic knowledge of medical terminology and physiology of birth.
Knowledge of Traditional Birthing Practices
Must be willing to travel and must possess a valid driver?s license and reliable vehicle and must submit a current Criminal Record Check.
Work irregular or extended hours to complete special requests and/or projects.
Manage several people, priorities, and projects at one time, and may have to respond to emergency or crisis situations.