The incidence of medical co-morbidities in pregnant women remains a significant and growing concern, posing challenges to health services [1]. All pregnant and post-partum women should have access to multidisciplinary (MDT) enhanced level care. To run these services effectively, appropriate education of staff is essential [2]. We have successfully established an enhanced maternal care (EMC) service in a district general hospital setting and have created an education programme to up-skill staff in necessary EMC competencies.

Methods

This training utilised and expanded on the existing PROMPT CiPP course (PRactical Obstetric Multi-Professional Training, Care of the Critically ill Pregnant or Postpartum woman). Our course content was tailored to local needs based on historical data highlighting gaps in knowledge and experience prior to establishment of the EMC service. Participants included anaesthetists, obstetricians, midwives and critical care, amongst others. The course included lectures, small group skills stations and simulation. We also incorporated level three resuscitation training and certification for attendees. Course evaluation was via pre- and post-course anonymous questionnaires.

Results

Sixteen participants provided feedback. 93.8% had no enhanced maternity or critical care training prior to the course. Initial confidence in managing an EMC patient showed a median of 5/10 (IQR 3.5 – 5.5). Reasons quoted included limited exposure and no formal training. Confidence in managing an EMC patient post-course showed a median of 8/10 (IQR 8 – 9). All participants reported that the course enhanced their skills in managing a critically unwell pregnant woman and all would recommend the course to a colleague.

Discussion

With an increasingly co-morbid pregnant population, developing quality enhanced level care services is a necessity. Our work demonstrates successful MDT training with both taught and practical aspects. All participants reported improvement in their skills and confidence in being able to deliver EMC to patients on delivery suite. We aim to roll out this course at least quarterly to capture all relevant staff, followed by annual updates to maintain EMC competencies. We hope to share this education programme regionally with respective tailoring to local training needs.

Acknowledgments

We acknowledge the PROMPT CiPP course and teaching resources which we utilised and expanded upon in order to deliver a course targeted to local trust needs.