An Exploration of Student Midwives’ Lived Experiences Regarding Confidence and Satisfaction in Medium-Fidelity Simulation

Abstract

Background Newly qualified midwives are expected to exhibit some level of confidence in practice when they enter the clinical environment. Objective To explore the lived experiences of student midwives after exposure to medium-fidelity simulation concerning confidence and satisfaction. Methods This qualitative, interpretive, phenomenological analysis study was conducted on a purposive sample of five, fourth-year Baccalaureate of Nursing Science student midwives at the University of Fort Hare. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted. Data analysis applied the interpretative phenomenological analysis approach. Results Superordinate theme sense of fulfilment elicited six sub-ordinate themes namely 1) Transferability of skills 2) Knowledgeable 3) Equipment used during simulation 4) Realism of simulation 4) Sense of accomplishment 5) Sure/unsure of performance. The use of a standardised patient during the simulation instead of a mannequin prepared participants for the real clinical environment. After being involved in the simulation, participants became more inquisitive regarding the management of the simulated condition. Satisfaction with simulation depended on whether the simulation activity met the student’s expectations, and if the simulation equipment resembled real clinical equipment. Post-partum haemorrhage simulation bridged the gap between theory and practice. Conclusion Confidence and satisfaction of student midwives during simulation is depended on the realism of the simulated activity. Exposure to simulated activity increases student knowledge. The student acknowledged that simulation can bridge the gap between theory and practice.