Obstetric ultrasound training programmes for midwives: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Global Health

Background:

• Antenatal care is crucial for reducing maternal mortality, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 3.
• Obstetric ultrasound enhances antenatal care by identifying and monitoring high-risk pregnancies.
• Limited ultrasound access in low- and middle-income countries contributes to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a scoping review identifying global ultrasound education programs specifically designed for midwives.

Main Methods:

• Searched nursing, education, and ultrasound databases for relevant articles using specific keywords.
• Included 22 articles after screening 238 initial results for relevance and removing duplicates.
• Analyzed and categorized included articles based on developed themes.

Main Results:

• Identified various ultrasound training programs tailored for midwives.
• Highlighted the necessity of adequate training for safe and effective obstetric ultrasound practice.
• Found that developed programs can equip midwives to perform focused obstetric ultrasound examinations.

Conclusions:

• Emphasizes the critical need for comprehensive obstetric ultrasound training for midwives.
• Suggests that well-designed training programs meet workforce demands and improve care in low-resource settings.
• Provides a foundation for developing future midwifery ultrasound training initiatives.