Newborn Resuscitation Training in Resource-Limited Settings: A Systematic Literature Review

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Medical Education
• Neonatal Care

Background:

• Birth asphyxia is a major cause of neonatal mortality in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Neonatal resuscitation (NR) training for birth attendants is crucial, but its effectiveness is hampered by skill and knowledge decay over time.
• Challenges exist in transferring learned skills into clinical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the acquisition and retention of NR knowledge and skills among birth attendants in LMICs.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of interventions aimed at improving NR knowledge and skill retention.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search across multiple databases (Medline, Cochrane, Embase, CINAHL, Bireme, African Index Medicus).
• Inclusion of peer-reviewed articles and gray literature focusing on NR training in LMICs.
• Analysis of studies examining knowledge/skill acquisition, retention, and intervention effectiveness.

Main Results:

• High initial acquisition rates of NR knowledge and skills were observed, with notable difficulties in mastering bag-mask ventilation.
• Significant decline in knowledge and skills post-training was evident.
• Refresher training and structured practice sessions demonstrated potential to improve skill and knowledge retention.

Conclusions:

• Knowledge and skill falloff represent a significant barrier to effective NR training and reducing newborn mortality in LMICs.
• Refresher training and structured practice interventions show promise for enhancing skill retention.
• Further research is essential to implement and evaluate strategies for improving NR skill retention in both educational and clinical settings.