Examining the lived experiences of newly qualified midwives during their preceptorship

Abstract

Background Novice midwives at one NHS Trust undertook a 12-month preceptorship programme, designed to support them to consolidate their education and develop their competence. The study was commenced following concerns voiced by new midwives about levels of support during their transition, and also because of a high rate of attrition of newly qualified midwives at the Trust. Aims The aim of the study was to evaluate the experiences of newly qualified midwives during their preceptorship at the Trust. Methods A qualitative research design was applied. A sample of eight midwives provided data collected using a process of semi-structured interviews. Findings The findings of the research demonstrated that most of the midwives felt well-supported by their colleagues. However, although a preceptorship programme was in place at the Trust, barriers to implementing the programme included staffing levels, time for consolidation, not receiving protected time with preceptors and differences to allocated supernumerary time. Conclusions Recommendations were made for practice to include effective monitoring of the programme, and the provision of a specific Trust guideline for the preceptorship of newly qualified midwives. Providing individualised preceptorship pathways with supernumerary time in each clinical area was also recommended.