Clinical Supervision for Nurses and Midwives – Discussion Paper

Clinical Supervision is a formally structured professional arrangement between a supervisor and one or more supervisees. The supervisor facilitates the supervisees to critically examine their work issues to gain a deeper understanding, consider alternative perspectives, develop insight, and determine next steps. Clinical Supervision has an established history in the healthcare profession, including psychotherapy, counselling, social work, psychology, and psychiatry. Clinical Supervision is increasingly regarded as highly important for all midwives and nurses regardless of role or area. The capacity to reflect on practice is a desirable aspect of nursing and midwifery. This discussion paper breaks down Clinical Supervision modes, models, benefits, effects on individuals and organisations, and research findings.