CDS Training Course Requirement – Policy

Controlled Drugs and Substances 

In accordance with bylaw 21 of The Midwifery Regulatory Bylaws, 2023, a member must complete a training course approved by the council in order to prescribe, administer and/or possess controlled drugs or substances for the purposes of practising midwifery and as authorized by the New Classes of Practitioners Regulations, being SOR 2012-230, enacted pursuant to the authority of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (Canada). 

Course Approval Process: 

▪ Documentation that includes the name and location of the institution offering the course and a copy of the course syllabus must be submitted to the Registrar of the College for review and approval. 

Courses eligible for approval may be provided by Midwifery Education Programs in Canada at a university baccalaureate level or a standalone course administered by an organization or educational institution that must, at minimum, allow the midwife to demonstrate competency in management of the following skills: 

• Describe the pathophysiology of acute pain.
• Describe the use of the visual analogue and verbal rating pain scales to assess level of pain.
• Describe the basic pharmacology of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines.
• Describe the basic pharmacokinetics of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines.
• List the adverse effects and drug interactions associated with opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines.
• Discuss the issues of tolerance, dependence and addiction with opioids and benzodiazepines.
• Assess and identify whether opioids and benzodiazepines may be suitable for the medical needs of the person.
• Select and administer appropriate opioids when necessary for labour in hospital and for postpartum.
• Monitor client for efficacy and toxicity of opioids or benzodiazepines including how to manage an overdose.
• Explain the effects of opioids and benzodiazepines when taken during pregnancy and lactation.
• Describe the effect these agents have on labour, as well as, on the fetus and neonate.
• Outline the basic principles of prescribing and steps for rational prescribing.
• Demonstrate adherence to ethical and legal standards of prescriptive practice.

Applicants who have completed one of the midwifery education programs on or after the graduation year listed above are deemed to have met the formal education and training requirement and are in compliance with bylaw 21 of The Midwifery Regulatory Bylaws, 2023. 

Approved Course(s):