Doctor of Nursing Practice Program

Hannah Mehochko, DNP, MSN, FNP-BC

Hannah Mehochko
  • Committee Chair Name & Credentials:
    Melissa Davis, DNP, CNM, FNP-BC, FACNM, C-EFM
  • Committee Member Name & Credentials:
    Shelza Rivas, DNP, WHNP-BC, AGPCNP-BC

 

DNP Project Abstract

Type of Prenatal Education for Expectant Mothers and its Impact on Birthing Outcomes

Purpose
The purpose of this project was to evaluate the differences in birth outcomes between those who attended in-person versus virtual childbirth classes during the prenatal period. This impact may include type of birth, medicated versus unmedicated birth, and breast-feeding rates.

Methods
De-identified aggregate data has been collected through retrospective chart review. Participants were selected from two groups: those who attended birth classes offered in-person, and those who attended and participated in synchronous virtual birth classes due to COVID-19 restrictions. For this project, only midwifery patients have been included in the participant groups. There were thirty-three total patients observed (N=33). Fifteen patients (n=15) observed had attended in-person birth class and the remaining eighteen patients (n=18) observed had attended virtual classes.

Results
There was no significant difference across the outcomes when comparing between the participants who attended in-person classes and those who attended virtual classes. Outcomes were comparable between the two groups demonstrating that mode of education delivery does not impact birth outcomes. It is important to note that the majority of participants who attended either type of birth class had a vaginal delivery. The majority of participants in either group were also documented to be breastfeeding within twenty-four to forty-eight hours and have an APGAR score of nine.

Implications for Practice
The virtual education that was offered to many patients, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, did not diminish the quality of the education and still led to positive outcomes for patients. Patient education is essential to continue to provide no matter the circumstances.

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