Protocol for improving nursing performance towards placental examination at labor units

Abstract

Objective: The placenta is derived from both maternal and fetal tissue with approximately one fifth derived from fetal tissue at term. The placenta should be examined, as it reflects disease in the mother and the fetus. Aim: The aim is to implement a protocol for improving nursing performance towards placental examination at labor units.
Methods: Design: A quasi-experimental design was adopted. Setting: The current study was conducted at the labor unit at Ain Shams maternity hospital and Beni-Suef University hospital. Sample: 42 nurses who were affiliated to labor units (21 nurses of Ain Shams maternity hospital group and 21 nurses of Beni-Suef University hospital group). Tools: Two tools were used for data collection; structured interview questionnaire and an observation checklist.
Results: There was no significant difference between both groups in general characteristics. The majority of the studied nurses from Ain Shams and Beni-Suef hospital, respectively, did not attend any training related to placental examination before conducting the study. Meanwhile, there was a significant improvement in nurses’ performance towards placental examination after implementing the program.
Conclusions: The placental examination program was effective in improving the nurse’s performance at labor units.
Recommendation: Policymakers should formulate a national plan of continuing education to help nurses already in the labor force to retain and update their knowledge and clinical skills especially in such topic placental examination and encourage nurses to participate in programs in order to maintain a high level of health care in maternity hospitals.