Investigation of the preanalytical process practices in primary care in Istanbul regarding the newborn screening tests

Abstract

Abstract Objectives The research was conducted as a descriptive study to evaluate the practices and knowledge levels of midwives and nurses in the preanalytical phase of newborn screening tests. Methods The sample of the study consisted of 233 midwives and nurses working in 90 primary healthcare centers in three major districts of Istanbul. The practices and knowledge levels of the participants in the preanalytical phase of blood sampling were evaluated with the Preanalytical Phase Evaluation Form [PPEF]. Results It was determined that only 43.3% of the participants comforted the baby before taking the blood sample, and 61.8% paid attention to the temperature of the heel. Furthermore, 56.2% continued to fill the same circle on the screening card by squeezing the heel due to inadequate blood, 62.7% ensured the blood completely soaked through the front and back of the card, and 36.1% used both sides of the card to fill the circles. Only 53.6% of the participants stored the dried blood samples in the fridge. The mean PPEF knowledge score of the participants was 14.64 ± 3.40. There were statistically significant differences in the knowledge scores of midwives and nurses according to age, educational level, and working year (p<0.05). Conclusions In the study, it was determined that the practices of nurses and midwives in the preanalytical phase were not at a good level. In particular, it is recommended that nurses and midwives who are younger, have a lower educational level, and work fewer years be supervised and supported with training.