Australian midwifery students’ experiences of clinical placement

Background/Aims Workplace culture, environment and interactions with team members can shape midwifery students’ experiences of clinical placement and the ideologies of the midwifery profession. The aim of this study was to explore midwifery students’ experiences of placement and identify their learning needs. Methods This qualitative exploratory study involved 43 pre-registration Australian midwifery students at Western Sydney University. An anonymous survey was used to collect data on the participants’ experiences of clinical placement, which were analysed thematically. Results The clinical environment impacted the participants’ learning, information processing, confidence, communication and interactions with women. Students had a more positive experience when they had a supportive midwife or mentor. Clearer communication between facilities and the university was needed to ensure students were meeting key competencies. Conclusions Students’ placement experiences shape the midwife they want to be. Supporting and mentoring students and providing opportunities for them to debrief may improve students’ experiences of clinical placement. Implications for practice Midwives require training, education and support in how to supervise and mentor students. Further research is needed to explore the education needs of midwives and students to ensure that students receive a tailored education programme that optimises learning outcomes.