Simulation-based training for breastfeeding competency development in midwifery practice: a concept analysis

Deepa N. R.; Vidyashri R.; M. Abirami; Anupama Yadav; Smita T.; Gomathi Munusamy; Gandhimathi R.; Ariyalakshmi B.; Dhanya R.; Krishna Prabha P. K.; Balamurugan; Mohammed Umar

doi:10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20260835

Authors

Deepa N. R. Department of Obstetrical and Gynaecological Nursing, ESIC College of Nursing, Kalaburagi, Karnataka, India
Vidyashri R. Department of Community Health Nursing, RGUHS, Tumkur / Bangalore, Karnataka, India
M. Abirami Department of Nursing Services, Indian Nursing Council (INC), New Delhi, India
Anupama Yadav Department of Child Health Nursing, BGS VINS, Adhichunchanagiri University, Karnataka, India
Smita T. Department of Child Health Nursing, Acharya College of Nursing, RGUHS, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
Gomathi Munusamy Department of Community Health Nursing, Indira Gandhi School and College of Nursing, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Medical University, Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Gandhimathi R. Department of Community Health Nursing, Sree Abirami College of Nursing, The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India
Ariyalakshmi B. Department of Child Health Nursing, P.K. Das College of Nursing, Kerala University of Health Sciences, Ottapalam, Kerala, India
Dhanya R. Department of Child Health Nursing, P.K. Das College of Nursing, Kerala University of Health Sciences, Ottapalam, Kerala, India
Krishna Prabha P. K. Department of Child Health Nursing, P.K. Das College of Nursing, Kerala University of Health Sciences, Ottapalam, Kerala, India
Balamurugan Department of Nursing, Indira Gandhi Government General Hospital and Post Graduate Institute, Puducherry, India
Mohammed Umar Department of Nursing, Uttar Pradesh University of Medical Sciences, Saifai, Etawah, Uttar Pradesh, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20260835

Keywords:

Simulation-based training, Breastfeeding competency, Midwifery education, Concept analysis, Experiential learning, Clinical competence, Maternal health

Abstract

Breastfeeding competency is a core professional requirement in midwifery practice and significantly influences maternal and neonatal health outcomes. Despite global recommendations advocating exclusive breastfeeding, gaps persist in practical skill preparation and clinical confidence among midwifery students. Simulation-based training has emerged as an innovative educational strategy; however, its conceptual meaning within breastfeeding competency development remains inadequately defined. This study aimed to clarify the concept of simulation-based training for breastfeeding competency development in midwifery practice using Walker and Avant’s eight-step concept analysis methodology. A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science databases for studies published between 2000 and 2025. Sixty-four relevant articles were included in the final synthesis. Five defining attributes were identified: structured experiential learning, simulated clinical environment, competency-based evaluation, facilitated reflective debriefing, and clinical transferability. Antecedents included curricular gaps, technological advancement, maternal–infant health priorities, and ethical considerations in clinical training. Consequences encompassed improved psychomotor skills, enhanced clinical confidence, strengthened breastfeeding support practices, and potential improvement in maternal satisfaction and breastfeeding outcomes. An operational definition was developed to guide curriculum design, research standardization, and policy development. Concept clarification supports the integration of simulation-based strategies into competency-based midwifery education to enhance breastfeeding support quality and maternal–newborn health outcomes.

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