Including the Newborn Physical Examination (NIPE) in the pre-registration midwifery curriculum: National Survey

An online questionnaire was sent to all Lead Midwives for Education to assess the scope of NIPE education in programmes of pre-registration midwifery education. Findings are reported in two parts: part A (the current paper) examines the education provision for the inclusion of NIPE in the midwifery curriculum. Part B (a subsequent paper) explores NIPE education as a post-registration module. 68.9% of AEIs completed the questionnaire. 25% stated that NIPE training is included in in their pre-registration midwifery programmes. 37.5% reported plans to implement this within the next 2-5 years and 30% had no plans to do so. Benefits for practice partners, commissioners, students and service-users were identified. Challenges were noted, particularly in relation to resources and student support in practice. Although barriers doubtless exist, the success of the few institutions which have incorporated NIPE into their curricula is evidence that this is not only possible, but has proven benefits.