Evaluation of an online learning module to improve nurses’ and midwives’ capacity to promote preconception health in primary healthcare settings
Karin Hammarberg A B C and Ruby Stocker AA Global and Women’s Health, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 4, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Vic. 3004, Australia.
B Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority, Level 30, 570 Bourke Street, Melbourne, Vic. 3000, Australia.
C Corresponding author. Email: karin.hammarberg@monash.edu
Australian Journal of Primary Health 27(6) 462-466 https://doi.org/10.1071/PY21026
Submitted: 17 February 2021 Accepted: 3 June 2021 Published: 14 October 2021
Abstract
Optimal parental preconception health improves the likelihood of a successful pregnancy and a healthy child. Although primary healthcare professionals believe that it is within their role to promote preconception health to people of reproductive age, few do this routinely, in part because they lack knowledge on the topic and confidence to discuss it with their patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and acceptability of a free online learning module to assist nurses and midwives in primary health care to promote preconception health in their practice. A repeat online survey was administered before and after completion of the online learning module. The survey included questions gauging knowledge about and attitudes towards promoting preconception health. In all, 121 nurses/midwives completed the two surveys and the learning module. There were statistically significant improvements in the knowledge scores (from 6.42 to 8.31; P < 0.001) and in the proportion of participants who reported feeling confident in their knowledge about preconception health (from 15% to 53%). Almost all (95%) were satisfied with the duration and content of the learning module. The findings of this study suggest that the learning module is acceptable and improves nurses’ and midwives’ capacity to promote preconception health in their practice.
Keywords: primary care, pregnancy planning, preconception health, pregnancy health, health promotion, nursing, online learning, clinical practice.
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