| Sumario: | • Labor & delivery nurses have limited training in obstetric anal sphincter injuries. • Nurses feel confident caring for perineal injuries without formal training. • Computer based learning modules enrich nurse education on perineal injuries. Perineal injury is the most common complication of vaginal delivery, and labor and delivery (L&D) nurses are crucial in managing and educating women following perineal trauma. The aims of this study were to assess L&D nurse experience, knowledge, and self-perception of preparedness in caring for women with obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) and to compare pre- and post-test scores using a computer-based learning module (CBL) for OASIS nurse education. All L&D nurses were invited to complete a voluntary, self-assessment questionnaire inquiring about prior experience, training, and education and current clinical practice in caring for patients with OASIS. They were also asked to answer ten knowledge-based questions about OASIS. The primary outcome was change in pretest and posttest knowledge-based scores after completion of CBL. Forty-one L&D nurses voluntarily responded to the self-assessment survey. Of respondents, 20% answered they were "very comfortable", 48% "comfortable", 23% "neutral," and 8% "uncomfortable" for caring for women with OASIS post-delivery. Fifty-three percent of reported having no formal education in nursing school about OASIS and 35% reported no formal training while at work. The average pretest knowledge test score was 66.3% and 93.5% (p < 0.001) after completion of the CBL. Most L&D nurses in this study reported having very limited formal nursing education in OASIS. Regardless of this lack of formal training, the majority of L&D nurses in this sample described themselves as comfortable caring for patients with OASIS post-delivery. Completion of a CBL was associated with higher OASIS knowledge scores.
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