The development and psychometric evaluation of the Perceptions of Empowerment in Midwifery Scale

Objectiveto develop and psychometrically evaluate a scale to measure midwives’ perceptions of their levels of empowerment.Designa cross-sectional postal survey, carried out in May 2005.Participantsa random sample of midwives practising in Ireland (n=244).Measurement and findingsthe Perceptions of Empowerment in Midwifery Scale (PEMS) was developed and psychometrically evaluated in this study. Exploratory factor analysis was performed on the scale, using Principal Axis Factoring with an oblique (Direct Oblimin) rotation. This suggested three sub-scales: autonomous practice; effective management and women-centred practice. The scale was found to be a valid and reliable instrument.Key conclusionsthe PEMS is an appropriate tool to measure midwives’ perceptions of their levels of empowerment.Implications for practicewithin the current context of change in Irish midwifery, this research facilitates the articulation and measurement of the conditions that facilitate empowerment in midwifery, which can assist in enhancing the midwifery contribution to maternity care.