Date of Conferral

2018

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Barbara A. Niedz

Abstract

Maternal cardiac arrest is among the most frightening events that can happen on the labor and delivery unit. A maternal arrest can have catastrophic results. Staff must be vigilant, competent, and ready to handle the maternal arrest emergency at all times. A maternal cardiac arrest requires coordination among multiple disciplines and precise performance is paramount in saving not one life, but two. The purpose of the project was to establish a clinical training course for maternal arrest intended for education to improve staff knowledge during a maternal cardiac arrest. Evaluation of the knowledge and skills were through an exam, participation in a mock maternal cardiac arrest, and annual competencies for all appropriate staff. Results of the advanced cardiac life support first time exam pass rate was 92% with 100% second time pass rate. The neonatal resuscitation protocol exam pass rate was 100% on the first attempt. Total pre confidence score for RNs M 30.32, SD = 4.34, range = 15.0. Total post confidence score for RNs M = 40.14, SD = 3.24, range = 12.0. Total pre confidence scores for MDs M = 37.91, SD = 2.51, range = 9.0. Total post confidence score for MDs M = 44.37, SD = 3.20, range = 12.0. Total pre confidence score for RTs M = 33.5, SD = 3.83, range = 9.0. Post confidence score for RTs M = 41.17, SD = 2.71, range = 8.0. All scores increased in a statistically significant way p=.000. The major themes that emerged from the debriefing were angst, rush, relief. Recommendations include an annual competency and frequent, monthly checks for skills. The impact on social change is a highly trained, competent, and confident hospital staff, which is a positive change for the critical access hospital.

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