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The continuing professional education needs of midwives
1University of the West of England, Faculty of Health and Social Care, Bristol, UK.
Nurse Education Today
|November 26, 1997
Summary
Continuing professional education (CPE) for midwives should be individualized and practice-relevant. Midwives identify needs through colleagues, with professional and management topics being key areas for development.
Area of Science:
- Continuing Professional Education
- Midwifery Practice
- Healthcare Professional Development
Background:
- The study operates within the framework of Post Registration Education and Practice (PREP).
- It addresses current changes impacting midwives and midwifery education.
- The philosophy emphasizes tailoring continuing professional education (CPE) to individual needs and practice environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the continuing professional education (CPE) needs of midwives.
- To gather information for planning and implementing effective CPE programs.
- To understand how to best support midwives' professional development.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive survey design was employed.
- Questionnaires were distributed to 696 midwives across 7 NHS Trusts in South-West England.
- Seven midwife managers were interviewed to supplement survey data.
Main Results:
- Midwives utilize diverse strategies for identifying CPE needs, notably through peer interaction.
- 'Professional issues' and 'management topics' were consistently identified as primary areas of need by both midwives and managers.
- A clear demand exists for flexible learning options, including part-time and distance education.
Conclusions:
- CPE programs for midwives require a focus on professional and management development.
- Flexible and accessible learning formats are crucial for effective CPE delivery.
- Midwifery managers and educators play a vital role in facilitating midwives' CPE and career progression.