Obstetric residency curriculum for novice obstetric nurses

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Joely Austin

Mercy College of Ohio, USA

: J Nurs Patient Care

Abstract

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This project is to design a registered nurse obstetric residency program. This came about by observing the lack of structured education for newly hired obstetric nurses. Problem identified; the current orientation and training process of a local hospital raised the question; how competent are novice obstetric nurses after six to eight weeks of orientation and would the implementation of an obstetric nurse residency program produce more confident and competent nurses. Project question: Is it possible to develop a curriculum using AWHONN best practice model that encompasses Benner’s novice to expert theory for development of an obstetric nurse residency program? A literature review was conducted with specific search requirements. Very little information on obstetric nursing residency program where available; but many articles were obtained about specialty nurse residency programs; therefore a gap was discovered in the available literature. This gap in the literature shows a definite need for a formal obstetric residency program for novice nurses. In conclusion, a curriculum was developed using AWHONN guidelines. The program consists of six weeks of classroom work, simulation and skills lab; followed by one on one preceptor with an experience obstetrics nurse.

Biography

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