‘A good midwife stands out’: 3rd year midwifery students' views

Backgroundthe midwifery workforce in Australia is ageing and predominantly part-time. There is considerable interest in the induction and retention of new midwives in the profession.Objectivethis study was undertaken to explore 3rd year students' views of the good midwife. It was anticipated that student views would show evidence of early transition and socialisation into the profession.Designqualitative thematic analysis.SettingMelbourne, AustraliaParticipantsall completing midwifery students, in 2010, were invited to participate (n=31).Findingsthree broad themes emerged from the analysis: (1) a skilled practitioner; (2) a caring and compassionate individual; and (3) beyond the call of duty: passion and enthusiasm for midwifery.Key conclusions and implications for practiceit was evident that 3rd year students' views of the good midwife were becoming aligned with the views of qualified midwives. Students also acknowledged the importance of safe practice at the same time as supporting women to make decisions. However, their intense passion and enthusiasm for midwifery practice may make them vulnerable to disappointment with the profession.