Critical evaluation and reflection on the role of the supervisor of midwives within the maternity services

This paper critically evaluates and reflects upon an aspect of change (introduction of new electronic records) that occurred in contemporary practice, from a supervisor of midwives’ (SoM) viewpoint. The statutory framework of supervision is contextualised (Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), 2011a; 2012), followed by a brief discussion as to why records are important. To facilitate critical analysis of the implementation of a new electronic records system,an adaptation of John Kotter’s (1996) eight-step process to change by Kotter and Rathgeber (2006) (Figure 1) is utilised. Throughout the paper the SoM’s role, in relation to implementing, supporting and evaluating a change in practice, are debated (including actual actions or suggestions of how to facilitate change). Utilising Leamon’s Fusion Framework for reflection (2012) (Figure 2), the change to practice is considered and recommendations for future practice shared (Stewart,2002). Finally, the paper offers a conclusion summarising the key points debated