Welcome to your Cardiac Assessment for the Midwife Online Course 

Cardiac Conditions in Pregnancy and the Expanding Role of Midwives

Your Presenter: Anne Evans-Murray
Format: Online and available anytime
CPD: 5 Hours
Access: 12 months from the course start date. You can return to any part of the course as many times as needed. 
(Please NoteIf you purchased this course as a Nursing CPD financial subscriber which gave you a discounted price, your 12 months' access will only remain while you are an existing financial subscriber.)

Course Overview

Anne Evans-Murray, in collaboration with Nursing CPD, have developed this unique cardiac assessment course for Midwives. Throughout this online course, the experienced presenter will guide you through practical demonstrations to help you gain a deeper understanding of cardiac knowledge. Come away from this course feeling more confident in recognition of cardiac deterioration and with increased ability to refer to a cardiac specialist and communicate your assessments.

Recognise. Respond. Refer. Cardiac Confidence for Every Midwife.

Your Certificate

Certificate: Once you have completed all the modules of your course and the course evaluation, you will be able to generate a Certificate of Completion and download it for your records.  

Do you need an evidence portfolio to keep your records in order?

Stay AHPRA-Compliant with Ease – Your CPD, Simplified!

Keeping up with AHPRA’s CPD requirements doesn’t have to be stressful. CPD Portfolio makes it effortless for nurses to track, manage, and organise their CPD evidence—all in one place.
  • Hassle-free compliance – No more scrambling at audit time.
  • Easy uploads & tracking – Keep all your CPD evidence organised.
  • Designed for Nurses – Meets AHPRA standards with zero guesswork.
Sign up with CPD Portfolio today and take control of your CPD evidence!
Use coupon code NCPDREF for an exclusive 20% discount.

Course Learning Outcomes

  • Review the cardiac complex: waves, segments and timing intervals and demonstrate the understanding of the foundation of interpretation of sinus rhythm and abnormal arrhythmias.
  • Demonstrate interpretation of life-threatening arrhythmias and outline the treatment according to the Australian and New Zealand Committee of Resuscitation guidelines (ANZCOR)
  • Demonstrate an understanding of 12 lead ECG interpretation in relation to identifying changes related to acute coronary syndrome – become proficient at interpreting a myocardial infarction.
  • Describe the pathophysiological development and nursing assessment of a variety of common cardiac disorders

WANT TO SEE ANNE LIVE?

Explore Anne's upcoming CPD seminars and conferences.

ANNE'S ONLINE COURSES

The future of the clinical ward environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Help

If you’re stuck, need help accessing your course or would like tips and instructions, please contact us at enquiries@nursingcpd.com.au or 07 4151 3884 (Option 1)
online and on demand

Cardiac  Assessment
For the Midwife

Cardiac Conditions in Pregnancy and the Expanding Role of Midwives

Write your awesome label here.
Led by Anne Evans-Murray, this 5-hour online course will explore the essential role midwives play in recognising and responding to cardiac complications during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period.

Buy today - $210.00 inc GST

WATCH 7 VIDEO PRESENTATIONS

In these six sessions, Anne will teach you the key skills required to distinguish between normal pregnancy symptoms and red flags that may indicate serious cardiac issues such as LQTI, AF, SCAD, and heart failure.

SELF-PACED: LEARN ON DEMAND - 24/7

This self-paced course is available to you 24/7, allowing you to complete it anytime, anywhere at your convenience!

EARN A CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION

Upon completing this online course, you will receive a Certificate of Completion, available for download as a digital certificate or for printing as a hard copy.

What this Course is about

Cardiac disease is one of the leading causes of maternal illness and death in Australia and worldwide. Midwives have a vital role in early detection and treatment. By recognising and responding to cardiac-related complications quickly, they can help prevent serious harm or death.


Data from around the world shows a growing need for midwives to develop advanced assessment skills. These skills help them identify early signs of cardiovascular deterioration during pregnancy, labour, and the postpartum period.


Midwives are aware that the symptoms of heart disease can overlap with common pregnancy symptoms. These may include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Ankle swelling (oedema)


An experienced midwife can tell the difference between what’s expected in a normal pregnancy and what may signal a serious cardiac condition.


Pregnancy puts added strain on the cardiovascular system, which can create health risks. Because of the rise in heart-related issues during pregnancy, care now often involves a team approach. This includes involvement from what’s known as "cardio-obstetrics" or a "Pregnancy-Heart Team." Midwives are an essential part of this team. They often provide the first signs that cardiac deterioration is occurring and can initiate further care.


This specialised cardiac midwifery course has been created to support midwives at every stage of their career. Research highlights that more education and resources are needed to keep up with the changing complexity of pregnancy complications.

Some women may already have heart conditions before pregnancy. Others may develop cardiac issues during pregnancy. Early identification is key to reducing risks for both mother and baby.


By learning how to assess cardiac function, midwives can:

  • Spot potential red flags that may otherwise be missed
  • Intervene earlier
  • Improve outcomes for both mother and child


Midwives trained in cardiac assessment can offer more thorough care. They are better able to identify signs of heart issues, such as:

  • Abnormal heart sounds
  • Unusual blood pressure readings
  • Irregular heart rhythms


This knowledge allows them to manage cases more confidently, make informed decisions, and collaborate effectively with doctors and specialists. A good understanding of cardiac health also supports teamwork. Midwives often work alongside obstetricians and other healthcare professionals. Being able to clearly communicate any concerns helps the team provide more integrated and effective care.


Finally, having solid cardiac assessment skills reduces the chance of missing early warning signs. This not only protects the mother and baby but also lowers professional and legal risks. It shows a proactive approach to care, especially in women with:


  • Hypertension
  • Diabetes
  • A family history of heart disease

At the completion of this course, you will have:

  • Explore the need for an increase in cardiac assessment skills and knowledge for midwives
  • Identified the most common cause of maternal mortality and morbidity and explored the link to life-threatening arrhythmias and antidepressants
  • Gained knowledge in the recognition of cardiac deterioration in three clinical scenarios that can occur in pregnancy and postpartum
  • Demonstrated understanding of risk factors, warning signs, and symptoms of potential cardiac deterioration

You will also learn how to:

  • To recognise signs and symptoms of cardiovascular complications, such as shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, or irregular heart rhythms, that require immediate medical attention 

  • Recognise abnormal cardiovascular findings and refer women to specialised care promptly, ensuring timely management and improved outcomes

  • Have the skills to refer a patient to a specialist (e.g., cardiologist, obstetrician) based on cardiac findings and the patient's overall health
  • Understand the professional and legal aspects of cardiac care during pregnancy, including communication or referral to manage potential risks to maternal and foetal health
  • Identify risk factors for cardiovascular disease and complications during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and pre-existing heart conditions
  • Examine three clinical scenarios relating to Long QT Interval syndrome (LQTI), Atrial Fibrillation (AF), Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) in pregnancy and recognition of red flags

After more than a decade as a midwife, this course completely changed how I approach cardiac assessment. It clarified what had always felt like a grey area, especially around what’s normal in pregnancy versus a warning sign, such as AF or long QT. Anne’s clear explanations, rhythm strip walk-throughs, and practical scenarios gave me real confidence. I now feel better equipped to spot red flags and escalate early. ” — Sarah

Course Overview

Module One
Module Two
Module Three

Knowledge and Skills in Cardiac Assessment for Complications in Pregnancy: Atrial Fibrillation and Preeclampsia

In this module, you will gain knowledge and skills on the pathophysiology, presentation and complications of Atrial Fibrillation in pregnancy.  The rise in obesity and hypertension among pregnant women is a significant public health concern. Preeclampsia will be explored and how it is linked to cardiac deterioration, such as Atrial Fibrillation.

Additionally, it will explore the increasing risk factors, such as hypertension and obesity, and outline the effects on pregnancy. The midwife will be able to watch demonstrations and work with the presenter on how to upskill in recognising cardiac rhythms, including sinus rhythm and the characteristics of AF, using a cardiac monitor.

Anne will highlight the health risks associated with obesity during pregnancy, which can lead to gestational diabetes. Obesity in pregnancy can place the woman at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia, as well as increasing the likelihood of requiring a caesarean section. Obesity can lead to the birth of a larger-than-average baby, increasing the likelihood of birth injuries, prolonged labour, and the need for a C-section.

Preeclampsia can be a common complication of pregnancy, and for the majority of women, it may be mild, but it has the potential to be a serious, life-threatening complication.     

You will learn how:

  • Gain knowledge on the presentation of preeclampsia and the link to serious complications.
  • To recognise signs and symptoms of new-onset Atrial Fibrillation.
  • To recognise AF patterns on an ECG.
  • Explore the challenges with the treatment of a pregnant woman with AF.
  • Outline the potential complications of AF and link AF to preeclampsia and obesity.
  • To escalate care and collaborate with other healthcare professionals, ensuring comprehensive care for patients with cardiovascular concerns relating to AF.

Knowledge and Skills in Cardiac Assessment for Complications in Pregnancy: LQTI (Long QT Interval)

This module will assist the midwife in gaining knowledge and skills to screen for and assess the cardiovascular risk in pregnant women, thus providing early intervention if required. The presenter will also exam the global data highlighting the need to expand the role of the midwife. Due to the increase in cardiac comorbidities and mortality in pregnant women, midwives are now encouraged to develop advanced assessment skills to identify early warning signs of cardiovascular deterioration.

The midwife will learn how to recognise risks and red flags that may indicate the development of a potential cardiac disorder, such as Long QT Interval, which is increasing in pregnancy. The presenter will explore the increased risk of developing life-threatening arrhythmias to factors such as obesity, vomiting, dehydration and antidepressants. The midwife will then develop more confidence to be able to determine when to escalate care and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.

The content will include the vital need for midwives to upskill to avoid professional or legal pitfalls due to a lack of knowledge in cardiac assessment. Midwives will be aware of their professional responsibilities and legal requirements in managing cardiac issues during pregnancy.

Distinguish between normal symptoms of pregnancy and signs and symptoms that might indicate cardiac complications relating to developing life-threatening arrhythmias.

You will learn how to:

  • Gain advanced knowledge and assessment skills that will assist you in communicating and escalating care with other healthcare professionals.
  • Gain advanced knowledge and assessment skill that lessens potential legal and professional risks.
  • Recognise normal sinus rhythm and apply the knowledge to understand the Long QT interval and its associated risk factors in pregnancy.
  • Understand how advanced maternal age, antidepressants, and others can lead to a higher incidence of developing life-threatening arrhythmias or cardiac disorders.
  • Determine when to escalate care and collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care for patients with cardiovascular concerns.

Knowledge and Skills in Cardiac Assessment for Complications in Pregnancy: Acute Myocardial Infarction and Heart Failure 

The causes of an acute myocardial infarction in pregnancy are classified into two broad categories of atherosclerotic (blockage) and non‐atherosclerotic (dissection). Acute MI in pregnancy was once considered rare; however, recent statistics indicate there is an increased incidence, with a high maternal death rate.  

Women with pre-existing CAD (coronary artery dissection) have an increased risk throughout pregnancy and immediately postpartum of developing a myocardial infarction. In some healthy women with no risk factors, they may develop a myocardial infarction known as SCAD (spontaneous coronary artery dissection).  Often, the clinical presentation will be atypical of ischaemia, and they may not present with classic chest pain. The midwife must have knowledge of SCAD and its presentation.


A pregnant woman with preexisting heart conditions will have a higher risk of cardiovascular complications. Rising rates of peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) have been noted. Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a type of heart failure that develops late in pregnancy or soon after giving birth. It develops in women who may not have had a previous heart disease diagnosis.  Several factors may be contributing to this rise in heart failure, such as the rising maternal age, other pre-existing health conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, or heart disease, which can predispose them to developing heart failure during pregnancy.

 

You will learn how:

  • To recognise the atypical signs and symptoms of a myocardial infarction in a young healthy woman during pregnancy or postpartum.
  • To discuss the pathophysiology of spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) and how it relates to an increased incidence in pregnancy.
  • Detect early cardiac deterioration by recognising ST elevation on the 12 lead ECG as early recognition leads to reduction in incidence of arrhythmias and heart failure.
  • Discuss the pathophysiology and development of heart failure in pregnancy.

Buy today - $210.00 inc GST

"I have been told by several work colleagues how great Anne’s courses are. I was not disappointed at all. I would have to say as a first time attendee at one of Anne’s courses, this is the best presentation I have ever been to….. I will certainly be back for more." - KAREN

Our Presenter

Anne Evans-Murray

R.N., BHlthSc, MACCCN, Grad.Dip Ed, MEd, Dip Counselling, GradCertCritCare, CertIV Training and Assessment, CertIV in Mediation
Anne has a passion for teaching which she does in an unpretentious way that ensures you will not only understand and retain what she presents but will enjoy this learning experience. She has extensive experience of over 26 years lecturing for Gold Coast Health District and Griffith University.

Anne is a frequent presenter at workshops, conferences & seminars throughout Australia & New Zealand on subjects such as ECG interpretation, clinical assessment of the deteriorating patient, assertiveness and leadership. 

How you will Learn

The 5-hour Cardiac Assessment for Midwives Course is fully online and self-paced, allowing you to start anytime and progress at your own speed. With 24/7 on-demand access, you can fit the training into your schedule at your convenience.

5 hours of interesting and engaging online presentations

24/7 access to all the course modules and learning materials

Full ongoing course support via email

Your Certificate

Certificate: Once you have completed all the modules of your course and the course evaluation, you will be able to generate a Certificate of Completion and download it for your records.  

Do you need an evidence portfolio to keep your records in order?

Stay AHPRA-Compliant with Ease – Your CPD, Simplified!

Keeping up with AHPRA’s CPD requirements doesn’t have to be stressful. CPD Portfolio makes it effortless for nurses to track, manage, and organise their CPD evidence—all in one place.
  • Hassle-free compliance – No more scrambling at audit time.
  • Easy uploads & tracking – Keep all your CPD evidence organised.
  • Designed for Nurses – Meets AHPRA standards with zero guesswork.
Sign up with CPD Portfolio today and take control of your CPD evidence!
Use coupon code NCPDREF for an exclusive 20% discount.

Buy today - $210.00 inc GST

What others say about Anne's Cardiac Education

The best explanation from a lecturer who just doesn’t lecture to you, but is passionate about what they are teaching. Making it fun and interactive. Making sense of ECG’s and learning an easy technique to do it.
  • Margaret, Cardiac Assessment and Telemetry
The way Anne taught the topic, with all the examples and stories, really sticks.

With practice applying the famous five steps and using Anne’s other interpretation tools, I will grow my confidence to not only competently interpret ECGs but also advocate for timely patient care, when necessary, as time is muscle.
  • Jodie, Cardiac and ECG Interpretation
Omg Anne, words cannot explain how easily you describe ECG and how easy you make it to remember.
  • Liz, Telemetry & ECG Interpretation

Frequently Asked Questions

WANT TO SEE ANNE LIVE?

Explore Anne's upcoming CPD seminars and conferences.

ANNE'S ONLINE COURSES

The future of the clinical ward environment.