PRONTO training for obstetric and neonatal emergencies in Mexico

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Simulation Training
• Global Health

Background:

• Obstetric and neonatal emergencies pose significant risks, particularly in low-resource settings.
• Effective teamwork and timely intervention are crucial for improving maternal and newborn outcomes.
• Simulation-based training offers a promising approach to enhance healthcare provider skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the acceptability, feasibility, and impact of PRONTO, a simulation training program.
• To evaluate the use of the PartoPants low-cost birth simulator for obstetric and neonatal emergencies.
• To measure improvements in interprofessional teamwork, knowledge, and self-efficacy.

Main Methods:

• A pilot project trained interprofessional teams from 5 community hospitals in Mexico.
• Training involved modules on neonatal resuscitation, obstetric hemorrhage, dystocia, and pre-eclampsia/eclampsia.
• Acceptability, feasibility, goal achievement, teamwork, knowledge, and self-efficacy were assessed via surveys and interviews.

Main Results:

• The PRONTO program received high ratings from both trainees and non-trainees.
• Participants achieved 65% of their identified hospital goals within 3 months.
• Significant improvements were observed in teamwork, knowledge, and self-efficacy scores.

Conclusions:

• PRONTO simulation training is acceptable and feasible for low-resource settings.
• The program empowers interprofessional teams to manage obstetric and neonatal emergencies effectively within institutional constraints.
• Further research is needed to confirm the program's impact on patient outcomes.