What it’s like to train Emma Willis to deliver babies

What it’s like to train Emma Willis to deliver babies

As a seasoned movie lover with a penchant for documentaries that delve into real-life stories, I wholeheartedly recommend adding “Emma Willis: Delivering Babies” to your watchlist. This series resonates deeply with me, as it echoes my own childhood dream of becoming a midwife. Though our paths diverged, the passion and dedication portrayed by Emma in this show are truly inspiring.


Add Emma Willis: Delivering Babies to your watchlist

In the fourth series of Delivering Babies, Emma Willis takes on a fresh role at Watford General Hospital’s new maternity unit. Her aim is to advance her skills and become a Maternity Support Worker (MSW), a step up from her previous position as a Maternity Care Assistant (MCA). During this transition, she will be mentored by Ozlem Uslu, the MSW project lead midwife, affectionately known as “Oz.

CHILDHOOD DREAM

Since I was just a young girl, I’ve dreamed of becoming a midwife – to be there for women, speak up for them, and guide them through the experience of pregnancy. Despite being a driving instructor, married with two children, I made the decision to leave my job and attend the University of Hertfordshire full-time. I completed my training in Watford and obtained my midwife qualification in 2012.

PUTTING SKILLS TO THE TEST

We reviewed the abilities Emma had previously mastered, such as measuring blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate, as well as baby observations. We identified which areas required additional training for her, and after she demonstrated proficiency under supervision, I approved her. She’s quite enthusiastic about drawing blood! The new skills we introduced were the removal of a catheter, taking out an IV cannula, performing urinalysis, and checking blood sugar levels.

CONFIDENCE BOOST

Weekly, Emma finished a set of skills work, which included plenty of theory and constructive criticism. I handled her much like the rest of the team. Her working hours varied, ranging from 12-hour shifts to 7.5-hour ones. My approach is more about mentoring than instructing. I foster a positive environment, although I can be firm when needed! Emma sometimes felt anxious and took some time to adjust. She often preferred additional practice before being evaluated. To build her confidence, I knew she had the skills, so I focused on encouraging her.

CELEBRITY ALERT

Some individuals desired to maintain their childbirth experience confidential, while many others were willing to have it recorded, particularly if it involved a C-section. In truth, certain couples expressed disappointment at not being able to participate in the show, due to the progression of their pregnancy. As Emma and I strolled through the ward, we often heard people exclaiming, “Is that Emma Willis?” (implying they recognized her).

A WATFORD WIN

I’m thrilled that we joined this [series]. I hope for the best for Watford. Perhaps viewers will watch the show, discover its potential, and think, “Emma Willis attended there – maybe I could work there,” or “I might raise my child there.” I’d be delighted to have Emma back in Watford today! My MCAs and MSWs are truly special – I affectionately call them my guardian angels.

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2024-09-11 19:33