Reflective practice in midwifery

Introduction

Midwifery regulation worldwide considers reflection on clinical practice having significant importance. In high income countries, as the field of midwifery continues to evolve in its complexity, the utilisation of reflection becomes essential in supporting midwives and student midwives through a continuous improvement process. This process aims to foster personal and professional resilience, enhance the quality of care provided, and ensure preparedness for professional revalidation (Nursing and Midwifery Council, NMC 2015). Internationally, the ICM Global Standards for Midwifery Education (2021) advocate the use of reflection in the development of midwifery competencies, with the ultimate goal of reducing global maternal and perinatal mortality. Last updated 2023.

Learning aims and objectives

This course aims to enable midwives and student midwives to understand and utilise reflection as a valuable tool in their professional development. Through the module, you will gain the knowledge and develop skills necessary to engage in reflective practice.

– Gain knowledge of reflection and how it might enhance your midwifery practice
– Outline the types of reflection that can be used and when to use them
– Identify approaches to reflective practice
– Gain experience of using reflective models to develop your own practice

Keywords

reflection, learning, development, practice, regulation, education, personal development, research, regulation

Curriculum quality standards

International Confederation of Midwives Category 1 General Competencies

Lancet Series; Evidence informed framework for maternal and newborn care; Being an accountable, autonomous, professional midwife: skills for Domain 1