A study to evaluate the impact of a midwife-led respectful maternity care education program on staff nurses and the satisfaction levels of postnatal mothers admitted to a maternity tertiary care hospital in Mahesana district

Abstract

Background: Respectful maternity care is an essential component of maternal care, promoting dignity, compassion, and patient-centered care during delivery. Despite this, cases of disrespect and poor care practices are still common. The current study sought to evaluate the effect of a midwife-led respectful maternity care education program on staff nurses' knowledge and practice and postnatal mothers' satisfaction levels.
Methods: A quasi-experimental study was carried out at a maternity tertiary care hospital in Kheralu, Gujarat. Thirty staff nurses and 30 postnatal mothers were involved. The intervention included a structured educational program for the nurses, followed by the implementation of routine care. Pre- and post-test were measured using structured questionnaires and observational checklists. Statistical tests, such as paired t-tests and McNemar's test, were used to assess differences before and after the intervention.
Results: The research proved a notable increase in nurses' knowledge and practice scores after the intervention (p < 0.001). The proportion of nurses with sufficient knowledge improved from 0% to 76.67%, and good performance levels improved from 0% to 80%. Likewise, postnatal mothers' satisfaction levels were enhanced, with high satisfaction improving from 0% to 76.67% (p < 0.001). Experienced nurses had better post-test knowledge and performance scores, indicating a positive relationship between experience and intervention effectiveness.
Conclusion: The respectful maternity care education program, led by a midwife, was a successful approach in upgrading nurses' competencies and increasing postnatal mothers' satisfaction. Incorporating such programs as part of routine maternal care may facilitate dignified and high-quality care during childbearing.