by Louise-Anne Geddes, Mindful Mum, 27th January 2012

The project was developed by Jenny Bailey, a midwife teacher at the University in partnership with Colleen McCants and Fay Cross in the Information Services department.  It was designed to provide an ‘additional and innovative’ training tool for student midwives, to allow them to ‘practice their management of care and communication skills in a virtual environment’.

‘Real life’ practice

The simulated process uses avatars to allow students to ‘role play’ through scenarios they may not encounter during clinical practice.  It is said to be so realistic that clinical skills such as taking pulse and blood pressure, giving pain relief and checking contractions can be practiced, even allowing student midwives to sit on the floor beside the Mum in labour, and rub her back.

Better services

Professor Cathy Warwick, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Midwives said:

“This project demonstrates that there is wonderful and ground-breaking work being done by midwives and I congratulate Jenny on her award. Midwifery practice is always moving forward and innovating. This shows that if we give midwives the resources and freedom to do this, the result is better services for women, babies and their families.”

Jenny Bailey was thrilled about her win, saying:

“I am absolutely thrilled to be a winner, especially considering the excellent calibre of the other candidates. Hopefully, the virtual maternity project will continue to go from strength to strength.”

Find out more about the Virtual Maternity Unit on the University’s Second Life Island.

Source:  University of Nottingham Press Release, Victory for virtual maternity unit in national midwifery awards, 27^th January 2012

Photography: Salim Fadhley @Flickr