Transitioning to Family Centered Maternity Care from Traditional Maternity Care

United States perinatal statistics indicate that maternity care needs improvement. In this evidence-based project, guided by the promoting action on research implementation in health services (PARIHS) framework, it is posited that no practice change will occur unless nurses understand and appreciate the relevance of evidence-based maternity care. A within-group design was used to address the clinical question, In the transition to family centered maternity care (FCMC) from traditional maternity care, what is the effect of an educational intervention on the staff nurse\u27s nursing knowledge of evidence based FCMC as compared to the knowledge of traditional nursing maternity practices? A critical appraisal of literature was conducted to determine best practice. The literature showed that education increased knowledge in FCMC and benefited nurses, organizations, and patients. The intervention consisted of four educational modules focused on FCMC, postpartum care, nursery care, and safety measures. The modules were developed for 47 staff nurses working in a traditional maternity unit. Each module included learning objectives, PowerPoint slides, research articles, and best practice guidelines. Outcomes were evaluated using pre- and posttests via the online Perinatal Orientation Education Program from AWHONN. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 18.0 statistical package. Descriptive statistics, such as frequency, mean, and standard deviation, were used to analyze demographic data. Paired t tests demonstrated a significant increase between pre- and posttest scores on three modules measured. Findings indicated that an innovative educational program tailored to the learning needs of experienced staff nurses contributed to increased knowledge in evidence-based nursing practice and patient care