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Mentorship, preceptorship and clinical supervision: Three key processes for supporting midwives

Abstract:

New Zealand midwives are increasingly seeking and receiving professional support in clinical practice. This support is gaining acceptance within the profession and is now underpinned by government funding. There are a variety of ways in which support can be provided and this review of the literature describes three main approaches: mentoring, preceptorship and clinical supervision. These three key processes may be undertaken by all midwives whether new to practice or new to New Zealand and also by those who wish ongoing support and development. The first government funded support for all new midwifery graduates is called the Midwifery First Year of Practice programme (MFYP) (New Zealand College of Midwives, 2007). The programme commenced in 2007 and includes a mentoring component. This paper traces the different histories of the terms: mentoring, preceptorship and clinical supervision internationally with reference to their current significance within New Zealand midwifery. These terms have evolved over time, and within different international contexts can manifest quite differently. The array of meanings ascribed to the same concept can cause confusion when midwives begin practice, change from hospital to community practice or change countries. This paper captures the common characteristics of the three terms in the literature. Clarity around the terms is essential if midwives are to gain maximum benefit from the provision of funded support for clinical practice.

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clinical supervision, mentorship, preceptorship, Professional support in clinical practice