5. Revalidation and preceptorship--safe practice for everyone, always

Area of Science:

• Midwifery Education
• Professional Development
• Healthcare Practice

Background:

• Preceptorship programs are crucial for ongoing professional development in midwifery.
• Midwives' impact on women's experiences is a key focus in contemporary practice.
• Revalidation is a mandatory process for maintaining registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore how preceptorship can aid midwives in preparing for revalidation.
• To highlight the role of preceptorship in gathering evidence for NMC revalidation.
• To emphasize preceptorship as a tool for maintaining safe and effective midwifery practice.

Main Methods:

• This article is part of the 'Midwifery basics' series, focusing on practical application.
• It reviews the principles and benefits of preceptorship for both preceptees and preceptors.
• The content is informed by the requirements of the NMC Code (2015a).

Main Results:

• Preceptorship provides a structured environment for midwives to collect evidence for revalidation.
• Active involvement in preceptorship facilitates demonstration of working within professional standards.
• It is an effective strategy for promoting and maintaining safe midwifery practice.

Conclusions:

• Preceptorship is an ideal opportunity for midwives to gather evidence for revalidation.
• Engaging in preceptorship supports continuous professional development and safe practice.
• It helps midwives demonstrate compliance with the NMC Code, ensuring continued registration.