A metasynthesis of nurses and midwives' experiences of clinical supervision

Given the current rate of burnout and attrition among nurses and midwives globally, there is a need to understand the effectiveness of supportive strategies to help retain this workforce.

Clinical supervision can help to ensure that nurses and midwives are supported and have the capacity to cope with their job demands. Yet there are no metasyntheses that provide a collective understanding of their experiences with clinical supervision.

To synthesise the experiences of nurses and midwives who have accessed clinical supervision.

A metasynthesis was conducted by systematically searching academic databases for relevant publications; assessing their quality using an established checklist; extracting and analysing qualitative content; and synthesising key findings about the experiences of nurses and midwives regarding clinical supervision.

Themes and subthemes were identified from 12 papers, including: optimal logistics; support; safety and confidentiality; improving practice through reflection; and trust in the group.

For clinicians to feel comfortable discussing their practice and workplace with the facilitator and colleagues, nurses and midwives needed to feel safe during clinical supervision and trust the process and their peers. Despite common difficulties of finding time for the sessions, clinical supervision can enhance collaboration and communication in the workplace.

Clinical supervision that adheres to group rules can provide professional support within a safe, confidential space. Having trust in peers and facilitators at the sessions can help staff develop confidence, provide personal development and professional sustenance.