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Perineal trauma requiring suturing is increasing, along with the associated physiological and psychological morbidities for women. Provider training appears to focus more on technical aspects rather than respectful, relational care for women. Studies exploring women's experiences have identified that how women are cared for can significantly impact upon overall experiences. To identify areas of improvement to the perineal suturing process and provide robust recommendations for urgent change by investigating what aspects are most traumatic to women and which are most supportive. A pragmatic qualitative analysis of data generated from 15 in-depth interviews with women who were sutured following birth. Regardless of tear severity, what was identified as helpful included anything that made the process better by increasing feelings of trust and reassurance, and providing women with a sense of being seen and heard. Harmful experiences were identified as those that worsened the experience, by increasing feelings of fear and vulnerability and leaving women with a sense of being disregarded or disrespected. The study confirmed that how the suturing process is conducted can have a significant detrimental impact upon women's short- and longer-term physical and psychological well-being. An improved experience for women is most likely with kind professionals who explain the process as it goes along, check-in regularly and validate how the women feel. Women prefer to be sutured by a known professional, only if this provider is also kind and respectful. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Participation in qualitative research frequently relies upon recall and verbal expression, which may be difficult for some people with dementia. While the use of arts-based and visual methods are transforming dementia care, exploratory research and evaluation methods have lagged behind with regard to the use of innovative qualitative approaches. This scoping review identified innovative qualitative methods that have been used to effectively engage and involve people with dementia in social and health research. Systematic searches of academic databases, Google Scholar, and hand searches identified 24 peer-reviewed articles published since 2010 for inclusion. Analysis focused on a description of both the motivation and methods ascribed by the researchers and how the capacities of people with dementia were engaged as part of the research process. The most frequently used innovative method was Photovoice. Action research, case study, narrative production, ethnography, participatory filmmaking and theater, co-research, and mixed methods were also used. Regardless of methodology, most studies used a participatory approach that incorporated visual methods alongside adapted semistructured or unstructured interviews. Researchers were focused on inclusion, empowerment, selfexpression, flexibility, and communication when selecting methods. Providing an appropriate research environment and committing time for repeat contact, observation, and engagement were important considerations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim and objectives. The study explored the experiences of newly qualified midwives and described the factors that facilitated or constrained their development during the transition from student to registered midwife. Background. Knowledge of the transition to midwifery practice remains limited. Design and Method. A qualitative descriptive approach was used. Sixteen graduates from one Australian University participated in a tape-recorded interview. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data set. Results. The metaphor of 'The Pond', an environment that consists of layers of life and can be both clear and peaceful or murky and infested, was used to describe new midwives perceptions of the context and culture of hospital-based maternity care. For some, 'The Pond' was a harsh environment that often became toxic. The 'Life-raft' metaphor was used to describe the importance of midwife-to-midwife relationships. The theme of 'Swimming' captured the consequence of positive interactions with colleagues and a supportive environment, whilst 'Sinking' described the consequence of poor relationships with midwives and a difficult working environment. Conclusion. The study highlights the importance of positive midwife-to-midwife relationships on the transition from student to registered midwife. There was also evidence that continuity with women and midwifery colleagues enhanced confidence and restored faith in normal birth. At the same time, it was clear that the midwifery culture of some institutions remains highly contested with midwives struggling to provide woman-centred care and often challenged by the risk-averse nature of maternity care. Relevance to Clinical Practice. Whilst further work is required, the findings provide a deeper understanding of individual midwives' transition period. The importance of forming longitudinal relationships not only with women but with midwifery colleagues is highlighted. Developing continuity models that adequately support graduates and student's needs are likely to assist in addressing practices issues in both the academic and clinical setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]