Improving Neonatal Outcomes Through Global Professional Development.

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Neonatal Resuscitation
• Nursing Education

Background:

• Stillbirths and birth asphyxia cause millions of infant deaths annually, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia.
• The Helping Babies Breathe (HBB) program aims to improve infant survival by enabling immediate resuscitation within the critical first minute of life.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement a multinational, interprofessional development program using a train-the-trainer methodology for HBB.
• To address neonatal morbidity and mortality through innovative professional development for nursing students and global partners.
• To share lessons learned and challenges to inform future global health initiatives.

Main Methods:

• HBB train-the-trainer workshops were conducted in five locations across four countries: Ethiopia, India, Vietnam, and Zambia.
• Nursing students and faculty participated in collaborative training sessions.
• Discussions and informal conversations were used to assess the impact on professional development.

Main Results:

• 145 participants demonstrated improved knowledge and skills in neonatal resuscitation post-training.
• Collaborative teaching and cross-cultural professional skills were enhanced among student and faculty trainers.
• Equipment and supplies were successfully provided to participating countries through university grants.

Conclusions:

• Nurses, midwives, and advanced practice nurses can contribute globally to reducing neonatal mortality by conducting HBB train-the-trainer workshops.
• Integrating HBB into existing healthcare systems fosters in-country ownership and sustainability.
• Further research is needed to determine optimal refresher training intervals and to implement HBB within prelicensure nursing programs.