Ultimate Clinical Placement Buddy

Going on the clinical placement, especially for the first time, can be nerve-racking. It is important to be empowered and to act professionally and responsibly, with self-esteem, competence and autonomy (Osterman and Kottkamp, 1993). To help student midwives with this, I have designed the Ultimate Clinical Placement Buddy, an innovative notebook to help you record your experience, promoting evidence-based and reflective practice.

Being on clinical placement can be stressful. Note-taking while on shift may be challenging—sometimes even impossible. It is safe to say that most of us have, at some point, scribbled on a piece of paper which then end up in the bin. By using the Ultimate Clinical Placement Buddy, you limit writing to the absolutely essential. This provides a systematic approach to note-taking and allows you to set clear objectives and actively seek feedback on your work. This will help you understand what is required and what you have to improve to achieve a good mark.