Background Many studies worldwide describe midwives' experiences during their transition from student midwife to qualified midwife. However, research on midwives' experience of transition to practice in the Republic of Ireland has not been published since 2008. This study aimed to explore midwives' experiences of their transition to practice in the Republic of Ireland. Methods A qualitative descriptive study using semi-structured interviews was conducted with seven midwives, who commenced their post-registration clinical practice between December 2018 and September 2019. Results Midwives described transition to practice as a time when they felt challenged because of increased responsibility and accountability. It was a period of growth because of ‘learning by doing’, where a supportive working environment was paramount. Conclusions Newly qualified midwives have considerable need for support yet it appears they do not always receive this support.

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Background Midwives returning to practice is considered to be an important recruitment initiative. Refresher programmes are generally required by returning midwives; however, there is a paucity of current research on the success of these programmes. Aim To explore the experiences of registered midwives undertaking a return to midwifery practice programme in Ireland, and the effectiveness of the programme in preparing and returning midwives to practice. Method A mixed-methods approach was used including data collection through questionnaire, focus groups and interviews. Nine midwives undertaking a return to midwifery practice programme were included in the study. Findings A passion for midwifery is a key driver for returning to practice. Returning midwives have unique learning and support needs yet they do not always receive the appropriate support. In total, 62% of midwives did not return to midwifery practice on programme completion. Challenges were encountered when seeking employment opportunities to consolidate knowledge and skills gained on the return to midwifery practice programme. Conclusion Return to midwifery practice programmes need to be tailored and clinical staff need to be adequately prepared to provide the required support. As a recruitment strategy, current emphasis is on the education component. However, equal emphasis needs to be placed on employment pathways on programme completion if this initiative is to be effective at returning midwives back to the workforce.

Background/Aims The extension of termination of pregnancy services in the Republic of Ireland represents a significant change to practice. Education is required so that nurses and midwives can fulfil their expanded role. The aim of this study was to provide an evaluation of a national termination of pregnancy education programme for midwives and nurses in the Republic of Ireland. Methods Kirkpatrick's framework for evaluation was used to create an online questionnaire that captured nurses' and midwives' reactions to a training experience at a termination of pregnancy education programme and their self-assessed knowledge before and after training. Results Participation in the training programme increased the participants' knowledge and confidence in caring for women having a termination. Participants reported that the training was relevant, met their expectations and new knowledge would be used. Recommendations for programme enhancement were also received. Conclusions Participants were satisfied with the education that they received. The positive impact that a short educational intervention had on participants' knowledge and confidence in providing care for women choosing termination of pregnancy was demonstrated.