Exploring supportive relationship provided to newly qualified midwives during transition period in Limpopo province, South Africa.

Transition from midwifery training to professional practice is enhanced by positive support from experienced colleagues. The study explored experiences of newly qualified midwives regarding existence of supportive relationship during transition. The setting was a maternity unit of a selected hospital from each of the five districts of Limpopo province. Population was all midwives who completed a comprehensive nursing programme (R425 of 19 February 1985, as amended); and qualified as nurses (general, psychiatric and community) and midwives working in selected hospitals. Twenty-five participants selected from maternity units of the five selected hospitals using non-probability, purposive sampling method. In-depth individual interviews conducted until saturation was reached. Data analysed through Tesch's method. Ethical issues considered. Findings revealed negative unsupportive relationship experienced by participants resulting in poor performance. Graduates expressed dislike experienced from senior colleagues. Establishment and maintenance of positive relationship between experienced and newly qualified midwives should be enhanced to promote effective transition.