Work

Interviews in the Recruitment of Student Midwives and Nurses: Safeguard or Artefact of Unconscious Bias? A Brief Commentary

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Midwives and nurses are integral to the quality and safety of patient care. However, there is a limited amount of critical discussion and debate about the use of interviews to recruit people to study for these professions. There are some reports of people who are marginalised, minoritised, or racialised, being denied the opportunity to study for a degree in these professions, despite meeting the requisite entry requirements. Therefore, this commentary analyses the contemporary narrative and discussion relating to the role of interviews in recruiting student midwives and nurses. This critical analysis uses the UK as a case study and promulgates an alternative approach that could result in a more diverse workforce and enhance patient safety. It is hoped that the critical analytical approach taken in this paper will inspire those involved in recruitment to midwifery and nursing to consider the efficacy, utility, and equity of recruitment interviews and their impact on who is or is not afforded the opportunity to pursue a career in these professions.

Source: International Medical Education

DOI: 10.3390/ime4040053

Author: Ray Samuriwo

Institution: Edinburgh Napier University

Language: English

Topic: Medical Education and Admissions

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being, Gender equality, Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,207