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Labour ward midwifery staff epidural knowledge and practice
N M Vandendriesen1, W Lim, M J Paech
1Royal Perth Hospital, Western Australia.
Anaesthesia and Intensive Care
|September 23, 1998
Summary
Midwife knowledge on epidural analgesia management is suboptimal, with a need for enhanced education. Lower knowledge correlated with earlier epidural recommendations, highlighting areas for improved practice and training.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Anesthesiology
- Nursing Education
Background:
- Epidural analgesia is a common pain management technique during labor.
- Effective management requires adequate knowledge and appropriate attitudes from healthcare providers.
- Midwives play a crucial role in the administration and monitoring of epidural analgesia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess labor ward midwives' education, knowledge, and attitudes regarding epidural analgesia management.
- To identify gaps in current understanding and training needs.
- To explore the relationship between knowledge levels and clinical practice patterns.
Main Methods:
- A survey was distributed to 80 labor ward midwives.
- 60 surveys were returned, yielding a 75% response rate.
- Data analyzed included years of experience, formal education, knowledge assessment, and attitudes towards epidural use.
Main Results:
- Only 51% of midwives achieved a passing score on the knowledge assessment.
- 35% found postgraduate education insufficient, despite formal training.
- Lower knowledge levels were associated with earlier epidural recommendations in certain patient groups.
Conclusions:
- There is a clear need for ongoing, specialized education in epidural analgesia management for midwives.
- Collaboration with the anesthesiology department is recommended for improving training.
- Addressing knowledge deficits can refine practice patterns and enhance patient care during labor.