Developing clinical competency: Experiences and perceptions of Advanced Midwifery Practitioners in training

Area of Science:

• Midwifery Education
• Advanced Practice Nursing
• Interprofessional Learning

Background:

• Master's programs for Advanced Midwifery Practitioners (AMPs) are crucial for developing specialized skills.
• Interprofessional and work-based learning are key educational philosophies.
• Evolving client demographics necessitate advanced midwifery competencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences and perceptions of trainee AMPs during their MSc in Advanced Practice.
• To assess the development of core competencies in AMP trainees.
• To understand how training impacts extended scope of practice and service development.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing focus groups with trainee AMPs.
• Exploration of core competency development across four domains.
• Analysis of the link between university and clinical assessments.

Main Results:

• Trainee AMPs developed specialized midwifery skills and extended scope of practice through integrated university and clinical assessments.
• Competencies gained facilitated the management of complex pregnancies and childbirth cases.
• Improved collaborative working with medical colleagues and enhanced acceptance of the AMP role.

Conclusions:

• The MSc program effectively equipped AMPs with advanced skills for complex care and service development.
• Interprofessional learning and work-based assessments are vital for preparing AMPs.
• Enhanced midwifery skills foster greater autonomy, decision-making, and evidence-based practice.