Impact of Maternal Fetal Triage Index on Emergency Healthcare Providers

IMPACT OF MATERNAL FETAL TRIAGE INDEX ON EMERGENCY HEALTHCARE PROVIDERSAn Abstract of the DNP Scholarly Project bySamantha ShepardCare of obstetrical patients in non-delivering facilities is increasing. Obstetrical service availability in rural areas has decreased by more than 50% in recent years, according to Hung et al. (2018). Healthcare providers in these areas lack confidence and competence due to lack of regular training and encounters with obstetrical patients. The Maternal Fetal Triage Index (MFTI) provides a standardized approach for triaging the obstetrical population. The purpose of this project was to determine if staff confidence and competency improves within 30 days following the review of the MFTI when compared to evaluations completed prior to the review. The project consists of a 17-question pre- and post-implementation survey that tested the knowledge and perceived confidence of the healthcare provider before and after education and review of the MFTI. Target population for the selected departments included licensed nurses within Ascension Via Christi ED In Fort Scott, Kansas. Data was collected from twelve eligible participants and analyzed from six participants that met full participation criteria. Results were evaluated using descriptive t-tests with comparison. A statistical significance increase in provider confidence noted between pre-survey (m = 17.3, SD = 4.58) and post survey (m = 21.3, SD = 3.7) testing; t(5) = -3.03, p = 0.02 and provider knowledge with pre-survey (m = 6.16, SD = 1.83) and post survey (m = 7.83, SD = 0.40) testing; t(5) = -2.5, p = 0.05.