Implementing a Frequent Neonatal Resuscitation Program Educational Refresher Course to Improve Nursing Knowledge

It is estimated that 10% of newborns require assistance breathing at birth (American Heart Association [AHA], 2020). Successful neonatal resuscitation depends on critical actions that occur promptly to increase the chances of survival (AHA, 2020). Researchers have revealed the knowledge and skill retained from the neonatal resuscitation program (NRP) begin declining as early as three months after completing the program (Smith, Gilcreast & Pierce, 2016). The purpose of this evidence-based project was to implement a review of NRP education every three months to improve nurses’ confidence when performing neonatal resuscitation. A validated Self-Efficacy 14-item Scale (SES-14) was used to measure nurses’ confidence specific to NRP skills before and after the educational intervention. The Evidence-based Practice Improvement Model and Lewin’s Change Model provided the framework for the development, planning, and implementation of this project. The aim of this project was 80% of neonatal nurses at Erlanger Children's Hospital who received the educational refresher course on neonatal resuscitation will have improved scores on the post-test by retaining knowledge and gaining confidence in neonatal resuscitation after three months. Eighteen (n =18) individuals participated, with eight (n= 8) completing the Self-Efficacy survey at more than one interval. Data analysis demonstrated test scores increased from the pre-educational survey to the post-educational survey. Nine of the survey questions were found to be statistically significant in increasing confidence scores after education.