Normal Physiologic Birth Continuing Professional Development: From a National Health Priority to Expanded Capacity

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Healthcare Workforce Development
• Quality Improvement in Healthcare

Background:

• Liberia faces significant challenges in healthcare workforce quality, with high maternal morbidity and mortality rates.
• The Resilient and Responsive Health Systems (RRHS) Initiative, supported by PEPFAR, addresses Liberian health priorities.
• New regulations mandate continuing professional development (CPD) for healthcare worker re-licensure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and pilot a CPD module for Liberian midwives and nurses focused on improving care for birthing women.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a novel CPD approach integrating didactic training and clinical simulation.
• To test the formal CPD application and approval process and explore sustainability.

Main Methods:

• A two-day CPD module was developed using the Model for Improvement framework, incorporating didactic training and clinical simulation.
• The module was piloted with 21 participants (midwives and nurses) in Liberia.
• Pre- and post-tests and observational evaluations were used to assess skill and knowledge acquisition.

Main Results:

• No significant improvements in knowledge acquisition were observed in post-tests.
• Small tests of change were implemented, aligning with the Model of Improvement.
• The pilot highlighted the need for resources to sustain simulation kits and training programs.

Conclusions:

• A quality improvement model provides a robust framework for developing and implementing CPD.
• The project raised awareness of examining practice changes for improved health outcomes.
• Further research is needed to assess the quality and safety outcomes of CPD trainings and ensure sustainability.