NMC values and woman-centred care
The NMC Code has four themes: Prioritise people, Practise effectively, Preserve safety, Promote professionalism and trust. "What does woman-centred care mean to you?" Genuine partnership with women in care decisions, recognising women as experts on their own bodies, informed consent for all procedures, individualised birth planning, cultural sensitivity, continuity of carer where possible. Reference Ockenden (2022) and the importance of listening to women.
Clinical competency questions
"Describe managing a woman presenting with signs of pre-eclampsia." Signs: BP ≥140/90mmHg on two occasions after 20 weeks, proteinuria, plus possible headache, visual disturbance, RUQ pain. Management: inform senior midwife and obstetric registrar, IV access, blood tests (FBC, LFTs, U&E, clotting), continuous CTG, antihypertensives per protocol (labetalol or nifedipine), magnesium sulphate for severe features, monitor closely, consider timing of delivery. Reference NICE guidelines on hypertension in pregnancy. "What would you do if concerned about foetal wellbeing during labour?" CTG interpretation, escalation pathway, SBAR communication with the obstetric team, PROMPT emergency training scenarios.
Scenario-based questions
"A woman declines CTG monitoring — how do you respond?" Explore preferences and concerns, provide balanced information on risks and benefits, document the conversation, ensure she can change her mind, involve senior team as appropriate, respect her autonomous decision as a competent adult. "How do you support a woman after a stillbirth?" Reference SANDS guidance, memory boxes, using the baby's name, sensitive language, referral to bereavement counselling, postnatal support plan.
Professional development questions
"How do you keep your practice up to date?" NMC revalidation, emergency skills drills (PROMPT, ALSO, NLS), reading MIDIRS and NICE guideline updates, RCM membership, peer supervision, case review meetings. "How do you manage the emotional demands of midwifery?" Midwifery involves both joy and grief. Peer support, formal supervision, debriefing after traumatic events, and clear personal boundaries are all important.