Assessing Midwives' Knowledge and Practice in Neonatal Resuscitation: Gaps and Transfer of Knowledge to Reduce Mortality

Abstract

Introduction

The neonatal period is a crucial time for the survival, growth, and development of newborns. Despite advances in medical science, neonatal mortality rates remain a significant public health issue, and midwives play a critical role in reducing neonatal deaths through the use of evidence-based practices and appropriate neonatal resuscitation techniques. However, studies have shown that healthcare workers, including midwives, may not possess adequate knowledge in neonatal resuscitation, leading to adverse outcomes. This study aims to explore the current state of neonatal care and the role of midwives in neonatal resuscitation, with a focus on training and the transfer of knowledge into practice. It is essential to assess the level of knowledge of midwives in neonatal resuscitation and their ability to transfer this knowledge into action to reduce neonatal mortality rates.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to assess the level of knowledge and practice of midwives in neonatal resuscitation, identify gaps in their knowledge and practice, and evaluate their ability to transfer this knowledge into action to reduce neonatal mortality rates.

Methods

This study is a cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted in six governmental teaching hospitals located in Khartoum city, with a total sample size of 57 midwives who work in the labor and operation rooms of the hospitals. The questionnaire comprised sections on sociodemographics (5 questions), knowledge assessment (14 questions), and neonatal resuscitation practices (21 questions). The sampling technique used was total coverage.

Result

This study included 57 female participants, primarily aged 51–60 years with a one-year diploma level of education. Of those surveyed, 49.1% performed neonatal resuscitation weekly. Participants demonstrated strong knowledge and practice in preparing for birth, but some gaps were identified in equipment usage and identification band placement. Resuscitation skills were generally lacking, with poor performance in ambo bagging and chest compression.

Conclusion

This study on Sudanese midwives' neonatal resuscitation knowledge and practices reveals room for improvement in equipment use, identification, and resuscitation skills. Demographic factors affect CPR knowledge and practice.