Educating student midwives around dignity and respect

FocusThere is currently limited information available on how midwifery students learn to provide care that promotes dignity and respect.BackgroundIn recent years the importance of dignity in healthcare and treating people with respect has received considerable emphasis in both a national and international context.AimThe aim of this discussion paper is to describe an educational workshop that enables learning to promote dignity and respect in maternity care.DiscussionAn interactive workshop, using different creative methods as triggers for learning will be described. Provision of learning opportunities for students around dignity and respect is important to ensure appropriate care is provided in practice. The use of creative methods to inspire has contributed to deep learning within participants. An evaluation of the workshop illustrated how learning impacted on participants practice. Data to support this is presented in this paper.ConclusionThe use of creative teaching approaches in a workshop setting appears to provide an effective learning opportunity around dignified and respectful care. These workshops have evoked a deep emotional response for some participants, and facilitators must be prepared for this outcome to ensure a safe space for learning.