References
Solihull Approach training in undergraduate midwifery education: a pilot study
Abstract
Background/Aims
To date, Solihull training for midwives in Northern Ireland has been facilitated as continuing professional development; however, incorporating Solihull Approach Antenatal Foundation Training in undergraduate midwifery education has been recommended. The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the provision of this training for undergraduate midwifery students.
Methods
This mixed-method evaluation study used pre- and post-test questionnaires with a purposive sample of 24 final year midwifery students. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics with thematic analysis of free text comments.
Results
Four themes emerged: perceived benefits in clinical practice; increased knowledge and confidence; increased recognition of the public health role of the midwife; and integration and timing of the training.
Conclusions
The innovative initiative was positively evaluated and considered an enhancement to current education provision. However, the initiative would have been welcomed earlier in the education programme.
Implications for practice
Solihull Approach training will be provided at undergraduate level and introduced earlier in the programme, with the subsequent potential to incrementally build on this foundation and include further tiers of training. The impact of students' application of the Solihull Approach in clinical practice warrants further investigation.
Public health has long been recognised as a significant role in midwifery practice; most recently clearly articulated in the standards of proficiency for midwives and the education standards for midwifery education (Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), 2019a, b). Throughout history it has been recognised that mothers have a significant influence on family health; therefore, the public health role of the midwife in providing woman-centred care can have a significant impact on family and population health.
The Solihull Approach Antenatal Foundation Training provides a framework for promoting infant, maternal, family and population health through professional interactions during pregnancy. This health promotion may continue with the transfer of care to a health visitor, contributing to the ethos of continuity of care in the interdisciplinary team.
All midwives in Northern Ireland are provided with Solihull Approach Antenatal Foundation Training and encouraged to consolidate the approach into their clinical practice (Bassett, 2018). In addition, the Solihull Approach is embedded in group based antenatal care and education (‘getting ready for baby’) sessions developed as part of the Early Intervention Transformation Programme.
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