A blended learning perineal suturing programme for midwifery students: An evaluative descriptive study.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Nursing and Midwifery
• Surgical Skills Training

Background:

• Midwifery students often lack sufficient perineal trauma and suturing experience for registration competency.
• Current training may not adequately prepare students for essential intrapartum care skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate midwifery students' perspectives on learning perineal suturing via a blended learning approach.
• To assess the effectiveness of a novel 'suture at home kit' in skill acquisition.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative descriptive study involving 22 midwifery students.
• Blended learning included lectures, a home suture kit, online resources, and optional in-person clinics.
• Skills were assessed via video submission, lab practice, and a final competency evaluation.

Main Results:

• Two main themes emerged: 'learning at home' (deliberate practice, mistake tolerance) and 'achieving competency' (equipment, integration of skills).
• Students reported increased confidence and preparedness due to the 'suture at home kit'.
• The blended approach positively influenced skill acquisition and readiness for practice placements.

Conclusions:

• The blended learning program, particularly the home suture kit, significantly enhanced midwifery students' perineal suturing skills and confidence.
• This approach is validated by students and recommended for perineal suturing and other clinical skills training.
• The study supports the integration of online and face-to-face methods for vital intrapartum care education.