Imminent birth education for rural and remote settings: An evaluation study.

Area of Science:

• Maternal Health Education
• Rural Healthcare Delivery
• Emergency Obstetric Care Training

Background:

• Rural and remote areas often lack specialized midwifery services.
• Non-midwifery healthcare professionals require basic skills for imminent birth situations.
• Existing training may not adequately address the needs of the non-midwifery workforce in remote settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an educational resource for the non-midwifery workforce in rural/remote facilities.
• To equip staff with knowledge and skills to assist women with imminent births.
• To enhance emergency obstetric care capacity in underserved areas.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive study utilizing survey evaluations.
• Development of the Imminent Birth Education Program (IBEP).
• Blended learning approach: online modules, face-to-face workshops, and facilitator training packages.

Main Results:

• Over 600 participants completed the online component, primarily from non-birthing facilities.
• The program reached all 16 Queensland Health Services statewide.
• Participants received training to facilitate workshops within their own health services.

Conclusions:

• The Imminent Birth Education Program demonstrated widespread adoption and positive evaluation.
• The program effectively enhanced knowledge, skills, and confidence among rural health professionals.
• This evidence-based resource improves care for women experiencing imminent birth in non-birthing facilities.