Nursing and Midwifery Studies (Jun 2024)
The effect of an internship program on the quality of preceptorship in midwifery education: perspectives of midwifery students
Abstract
Background: Internship programs in the fields of medicine and nursing have been widely successful in enhancing clinical education and preparing graduates for practical work. However, the use of such programs in midwifery education is less common.Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effect of an internship program on midwifery students' perceptions of the quality of their clinical education.Methods: An audit trial was conducted between 2021 and 2022 with a group of 22 midwifery students at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. The participants were selected through a census after meeting inclusion criteria and providing informed consent. The study was executed in three phases: preparation, implementation, and supervision and evaluation. Data was collected using a demographic and educational information form, along with the Nursing Clinical Facilitator Questionnaire. Descriptive statistical methods were employed for data presentation.Results: The mean age of the students was 23.47±1.91 years. The mean overall score for the quality of preceptorship was 77.33±6.91. From the perspective of midwifery students, the highest perceived quality was associated with Pregnancy and Childbirth Unit 1, while the lowest quality was associated with the Labor Unit. Students expressed the highest satisfaction with the organization and consistency of internship schedules, clear objectives for internship activities, appropriate student-to-preceptor ratios, preceptor support for students, safety training, and full access to preceptors throughout the day. However, they were dissatisfied with the lack of access to welfare and educational facilities, as well as insufficient collaboration between healthcare professionals.Conclusion: Midwifery students deemed the quality of the internship to be satisfactory. Nevertheless, certain modifications, such as regular retraining of preceptors, could enhance the program's effectiveness.
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