Developing a labour and birth orientation program

Smallwood, Katelyn (2017) Developing a labour and birth orientation program. Practicum Report. Memorial University of Newfoundland. (Unpublished)

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Abstract

Purpose and Background: The purpose of this practicum was to re-develop the labour and birth orientation program at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Charlottetown, PE. The need for this practicum was identified following a substantial staff turnover. This potentiated a need for orientation of a number of registered nurses to labour and birth. During orientation, presentation of program content consisted of two days of traditional classroom style teaching followed by a six-week preceptorship, where the majority of labour and birth knowledge and content would be acquired during this time and facilitated by the preceptor. This led to inconsistencies in information provided to new learners. Evaluation was determined by a written exam and preceptor feedback; inconsistencies were noted by unit leaders and preceptors with these methods of evaluation. Methods: A literature review was undertaken to explore the theoretical underpinnings for the program, Kolb’s Experiential Learning theory, and to explore the literature on the benefits and orientations programs. Also, a consultation plan and report was conducted, which provided a theoretical and evidence-based framework program development. Conclusion: The final program describes methods by which labour and birth content is presented to orientees, and includes 16 learning modules; 15 of which were developed. Additionally, the formal orientation process, method for evaluation of the orientee, and methods for remediation for individuals who are having difficulties with the orientation process are described throughout the program.

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