This second edition of a groundbreaking book is substantially revised to deliver the foundation for an evidence-based model for best practices in midwifery a model critical to raising the United States current standing as the bottom-ranking country for maternity mortality among developed nations. With a focus on updated scientific evidence as the framework for midwifery practice, the book includes 21 completely new chapters that address both continuing and new areas of practice, the impact of institutional and national policies, and the effects of diversity and globalization. Incorporating the midwifery model of care, the book provides strategies for change and guidance for implementing evidence-based best practices. The book examines midwifery efforts to improve the health of women and children in the U.S., for example, Strong Start, US MERA, Centering Pregnancy, a focus on physiologic birth, and successful global endeavors. It encompasses a diverse nationwide authorship that includes leaders in midwifery, academicians, midwives representing diversity, hospital- and community-based practitioners, and policymakers. This coalition of authors from diverse backgrounds facilitates an engaging and robust discussion around best practices. Chapters open with a contemporary review of the literature, a comparison of current (often scientifically unsubstantiated and ineffective) practices, evidence-based recommendations, and best practices for midwifery. Key Features: Focuses on scientific evidence as the framework for midwifery practice Addresses continuing and new, controversial areas of practice with strategies and guidelines for change Includes 20 out of 27 completely new chapters Authored by a diverse group of 44 prominent midwifery leaders Examines practices that are in conflict with scientific evidence

With a unique focus on exemplary, completed DNP capstone projects, this book delivers key information on designing, constructing, and completing a high quality capstone project. It demonstrates the impact that a well-conceived capstone project can have on facilitating change and addresses all program, administrative, policy, and clinical issues that DNP students may encounter during the capstone process. The book examines a variety of capstone projects from across the U.S.--quality improvement projects, strategic plans, advocacy, clinical case narratives, and other innovations--that demonstrate efficacy in clinical nursing practice outcomes and positive impact upon the health care environment.

The book analyzes the components of these exemplary capstones to demonstrate how each has provided leadership for change in practice, promoted interdisciplinary collaboration, contributed to advocacy and policy change, and enhanced quality improvement in health care systems. It addresses the role of mentoring and corollary practicum experiences. Current DNP students, faculty, nursing practitioners, and other health care providers will Key Features:

Focuses on a wide range of exemplary, completed DNP capstone projects Provides a roadmap for excellence in creating capstone projects Analyzes components of capstones that have effected positive change Includes strategies for implementing evidence-based practices for nurses and other health care providers Highlights DNP leadership and resulting positive changes in clinical practice