Improving Neonatal Outcomes Through Global Professional Development

Globally, stillbirths account for 2.7 million infant deaths each year, with the vast majority occurring in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Approximately 900,000 infants die due to birth asphyxia. The focus of the Helping Babies Breathe (HBB) program is to help the nonbreathing infant to breathe within the first minute of life, termed the "Golden Minute."

To present a multinational interprofessional development program utilizing the train-the-trainer methodology for HBB to address neonatal morbidity and mortality. Involving nursing students in collaboration with established global partners provided an innovative method of professional development. Lessons learned and challenges will be shared to enhance success of future efforts.

HBB train-the-trainer workshops were held to provide professional development for nurses and nursing students in 5 locations in 4 countries including Ethiopia, India, Vietnam, and Zambia. Workshop participants and the trainers participated in discussions and informal conversation to assess impact on professional development.

HBB training and train-the-trainer workshops were implemented in 4 counties. Equipment and supplies were provided in these countries through several internal university grants. All 145 participants demonstrated increased knowledge and skills at the end of the workshops through the HBB check off. Collaborative teaching and cross-cultural professional skills were enhanced in student and faculty trainers.

Nurses, midwives, and advance practice nurses can engage globally and contribute to closing this gap in knowledge and skills by providing train-the-trainer workshops.

Developing systems to integrate the HBB program within each country's existing healthcare infrastructure promotes in-country ownership. Joining the global effort to save the lives of neonates can be a meaningful opportunity for innovative professional development projects. While HBB education has been shown to save lives, a 1-time training is insufficient. Determining how often HBB updates or refreshers are required to maintain skills is an important next step. Another direction for research is to implement this project within prelicensure nursing programs.