Apprentice Midwifery Services

About Me

I’m Salerno RL Salerno Martinez, an apprentice midwife actively completing the Portfolio Evaluation Process (PEP) on my path to becoming a Licensed Midwife (LM) and Certified Professional Midwife (CPM) in the state of Texas. I am honored to work under the supervision of Jennifer Mozeke, BSM, LM, a highly skilled Licensed Midwife dedicated to serving families across north Texas. Together, we support clients through For the People Birth Equity, a nonprofit organization based in Grand Prairie, Texas.

Educational Pathway

The Portfolio Evaluation Process (PEP) is a nationally recognized, apprenticeship-based training program that prepares aspiring midwives through a combination of:

  • Hands-on clinical experience
  • Rigorous academic study
  • Expert mentorship

This pathway, approved by the North American Registry of Midwives (NARM), ensures that student midwives like me are well-equipped to provide safe and professional care.

Under Supervision

I have the privilege of training under Jennifer Mozeke, BSM, LM, whose expertise and commitment to midwifery guide every aspect of my education. With her mentorship, I am learning to provide high-quality care that prioritizes safety, compassion, and the unique needs of every family we serve.

My Role as an Apprentice Midwife

As an apprentice midwife, I play an active role in providing comprehensive, evidence-based care throughout the childbearing process. I believe in honoring the intuitive, physiological process of pregnancy and birth while empowering families to make informed decisions that align with their values. While I am still in training, all care I provide is directly supervised by Jennifer Mozeke, BSM, LM, ensuring the highest standards of safety and excellence.

Prenatal Care

Prenatal care involves monitoring the client and developing the baby’s health and well-being. During prenatal visits, I assist in:

  • Assessments: Taking vital signs, measuring fundal height, and monitoring fetal growth and positioning.
  • Diagnostics: Performing urinalysis, administering blood pressure checks, assisting with lab draws, or coordinating lab work.
  • Fetal Monitoring: Using a Doppler to assess fetal heart tones and movement patterns.
  • Education and Counseling: Discussing nutrition, physical activity, and common pregnancy concerns while empowering families to make informed decisions.
  • Risk Assessment: Identifying potential complications and ensuring clients receive appropriate referrals or additional care if needed.

Labor and Birth Support

Clinically, labor and birth support includes actively monitoring and supporting the physiological birth process while intervening as needed to ensure safety.
During labor and birth, I assist in:

  • Maternal Monitoring: Checking vital signs and progress during labor, such as dilation, effacement, and descent of the baby.
  • Fetal Monitoring: Performing intermittent fetal heart checks to assess the baby’s well-being during labor.
  • Emergency Readiness: Observing for signs of complications and assisting the supervising midwife in preparing for and implementing necessary interventions.
  • Catch and Delivery Assistance: Supporting the supervising midwife during delivery and aiding in immediate client and newborn care.

Postpartum Support

Postpartum care is focused on ensuring the health and recovery of the birthing person and baby. During the immediate postpartum period, I assist with:

  • Maternal Assessments: Monitoring bleeding, uterine involution, and overall recovery in the hours and days following birth.
  • Newborn Assessments: Checking vital signs, weight, and other metrics to ensure the baby’s health and well-being.
  • Breastfeeding Support: Offering guidance on latching techniques, milk production, and addressing common feeding concerns.
  • Clinical Procedures: Assisting with procedures such as newborn metabolic screenings, cord care, and managing perineal tears if present.
  • Follow-Up Care: Conducting postpartum visits to assess physical and emotional recovery and address any ongoing concerns.

Legal Disclaimer

 

I am currently an apprentice midwife and not yet licensed or certified.

All care I provide is directly overseen by Jennifer Mozeke, BSM, LM, a Licensed Midwife in Texas.

Deaf Birth Services is a Deaf, USAF Veteran Owned business. Established in 2021 as a Sole Proprietorship and later established as a Limited Liability Company in 2023.

Officially established in Texas as Deaf Birth Services, LLC DBA Dare 2 Doula by Salerno

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