How to improve newly qualified midwives' transition-into-practice. A Delphi study

Area of Science:

• Midwifery
• Healthcare Professional Training
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Newly qualified midwives in the Netherlands lack formal transition support upon registration.
• This gap can lead to decreased confidence and competence, potentially impacting patient care quality.
• A Delphi study aimed to identify essential support components for these professionals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To achieve consensus among stakeholders on effective support strategies for newly qualified midwives.
• To identify viable components for a structured transition into midwifery practice in the Netherlands.

Main Methods:

• A two-round Delphi study involving 61 maternity care stakeholders in the Netherlands.
• Online questionnaires assessed 16 statements derived from organizational socialization theory and prior research.
• Participants (n=56 in round 1, n=52 in round 2) provided feedback and opinions.

Main Results:

• Stakeholders reached consensus on an introductory support period featuring performance feedback and regional peer backup during shifts.
• Agreement was found on the roles of experienced professionals in mentoring and coaching newcomers.
• Organizational barriers to providing support were acknowledged by stakeholders.

Conclusions:

• Consensus was achieved on several crucial workplace support elements for newly qualified midwives.
• The perceived importance of a stable work environment differed from previous research findings.
• Practice organizations must enhance employment conditions and support systems to guarantee the quality of midwifery care.