I agree Missy, there is a very valid argument for ensuring everyone gets a break, particularly the midwives, but the more the students do we need it too, and away from the computer in the backroom, actually in the rest room for a few minutes proper eating and rest!

This is easy with some shifts, if it is quiet. No chance if it is busy. Difficult really as you are far more likely to make mistakes when you are rushed particularly if you are tired, hungry and thirsty too.

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That is exactly the point, I know it isn't the fault of the midwives or ward staff, they are just too busy most of the time to even realise that you haven't had a break, or to take on themselves. But who are the scapegoats when something inevitably goes wrong?

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Midwifemissy x

Student Midwife 2007
Student uni rep
Educational Resources Manager

PAB Support Worker

I know...Too scary and simply not fair.

This needs to be addressed and soon, every NMC hearing I read about on their site could probably have been prevented if there were enough staff to cope.

Of all the professions, midwives need to be able to care for women on a one-to-one basis and not only get breaks, but far more than they do...

I guess this has been said a million times though, when will anything ever be done about it?

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I have no idea, the government seems happy enough to let midwives keep carrying the can for their lack of action on this.

They are well aware of the gross lack of midwives, and the effects that is having, but pay less than lip service to sorting it out.

Lets face it they do very little to encourage new students to train because of the lack of funding and the fact they will struggle so much financially just getting through the course, and end up in debt when they have qualified....if they manage to survive to the end. Yet, many more qualified midwives are needeed to ease the current situation, it just doesn't add up.

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Midwifemissy x

Student Midwife 2007
Student uni rep
Educational Resources Manager

PAB Support Worker

But if students aren't counted in staff numbers.. they wouldn't miss you on a break?

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In theory yes, but I think it depends on the ward, mentor etc, and also how busy everyone is, I found I was more often than not told to get a break on a late shift, that maybe because the shift is longer than an early, though I am not sure.

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Midwifemissy x

Student Midwife 2007
Student uni rep
Educational Resources Manager

PAB Support Worker

Don't you just say "I'm going for lunch now.." ? I wouldn't be waiting to be told to go!

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Nooooooo

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Midwifemissy x

Student Midwife 2007
Student uni rep
Educational Resources Manager

PAB Support Worker

You'll see!!! In theory as the others have said its ideal in practice, especially when you have your own women to look after, you just don't see how you'll get through all the work, and checks etc.... If you have a break.
I have asked many times, "Do you mind if I just go for my break?" and no-body does mind, its just that when you see midwives working all day without one, I tend to run along with them really and we all have a quick sit down and a brew together when we can!!
People don't mind if you go, but... well its just difficult!!

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Forum Buddy


Have you just been offered a place? If so and you want a mentor please post in post this forum (also post here if you would like a mentee)

Exactly, and I never want people to feel I am deserting my post so to speak.

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Midwifemissy x

Student Midwife 2007
Student uni rep
Educational Resources Manager

PAB Support Worker