Date of Conferral

2018

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Marisa L. Wilson

Abstract

Inductions of labor that occur prior to 39 weeks' gestation can pose increased risks for the mother-baby dyad. In the target setting, there is a gap in knowledge among the pregnant women about options for delivery, hospital policies and procedures, and what to expect in the labor and delivery experience. Because of this gap in knowledge, the pregnant patient is unable to make informed decisions regarding her needs, expectations, and care. This lack of knowledge has resulted in a 40-50% rate of inductions of labor at the target site, which is well above the 2014 national average of 25%. In response to this gap, an evidence-based initiative was developed that focused on appropriate use of inductions of labor to increase safety and quality of care of the pregnant patient in a suburban women's hospital located in southeastern Georgia. The design used for this project was the development of an evidence-based, theory-supported educational initiative that underwent a formative and summative evaluation by a 10 member, interdisciplinary expert panel. Watson's theory of human caring provided the theoretical basis for the educational program. The interdisciplinary expert panel found that the initiative was educationally sound. The materials were found suitable for the intended audience and easy to understand. It is projected that the initiative will not only benefit the pregnant woman but will also increase the interaction, collaboration, and respect of members of the healthcare team. Implications for positive social change include the development of an educational program that will result in patients being more informed and becoming active participants in their care which will result in better outcomes for the mother and baby dyad.

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