A Mixed-Methods Evaluation of a Maternal Child Health Nurse Education Programme Using Moore's Outcomes Framework for Continuing Medical Education.

Abstract

Aim: Maternal Child Health Nurses (MCHN) play an integral role in child health in the community yet lack professional development opportunities. A tertiary hospital sought to fill this gap and developed an online MCHN education programme. This study aimed to assess the impact of the programme on MCHN confidence, knowledge and practice and to understand the factors influencing its impact.

Methods: MCHN enrolled in the programme were invited to participate in a mixed method study based on Moore's Outcomes Framework for continuing medical education. Quantitative data from surveys collected pre and post live webinars and at 6 months post programme implementation assessed participant knowledge and confidence, and the quality of the programme. Qualitative data from individual semi-structured interviews was analysed inductively to understand impact.

Results: Reported knowledge and confidence improved after each webinar (for knowledge from 2.60 out of 4 (95% CI 2.54-2.66) to 3.45 out of 4 (95% CI 3.40-3.59) post-webinar (p < 0.001) and for confidence from 2.58 out of 4 (95% CI 2.52-2.64) to 3.42 out of 4 (95% CI 3.38-3.47) post-webinar (p < 0.001)). Four themes emerged which facilitated the programme impact: filling a continuing education void, supporting diverse learning styles and needs, enhancing practice and advocacy through empowerment and fostering connections and respect.

Conclusion: We demonstrated that a well-designed online education programme led to increased knowledge, confidence and changes in practice. It facilitated connection and respect and reinforced MCHN value and contribution. It highlighted and addressed an educational gap within the MCHN continuing education landscape and has proven to be sustainable and impactful.