A midwife who has an inherent sense of security radiates security, wisdom and calm. These are attributes that provide stability in professional practice and that contribute to building team. An inherent sense of security is formed during childhood, adolescence and by previous experiences in life (Dahlberg and Segesten, 2010) and cannot be influenced to the same degree as the other constituents. The midwives expressed the opinion that it is difficult to distinguish between the private person and the profession. According to Berg (2005), the midwife is the knowledge she possesses, she is one with her profession. The midwives in the present study had many years’ experience, which afforded them great security. They possess vast experience and have a repertoire of situations that they can draw upon, all of which served as an autopilot in emergency situations. Unlike theoretical knowledge, professional experience cannot be gained from books (Halldorsdottir and Karlsdottir, 2011). The midwives reported that newly qualified midwives turned to them for help and support in the care of women giving birth. This is in line with van der Putten’s (2008) description of how midwives who had just passed their examination perceived that they had good theoretical knowledge but turned to experienced colleagues for help with practical issues and dealing with difficult cases. Midwives have a solid knowledge base (Jangsten et al.,2010) and the participants continued to develop their knowledge in order to maintain their sense of security. The midwives also participated in ongoing professional
education provided by their employer, which further strengthened their sense of professional security. Regular practical team training leads to a sense of security, as all team members share the same knowledge about how to manage acute situations and provide appropriate treatment. Dekert et al. (2010) hold that practical training improves learning and increases self-confidence.