Recognition of and Response to Obstetric Emergencies: Developing A Virtual Competency-Based Orientation Program Developing A Virtual Competency-Based Orientation

Abstract

In order to improve outcomes in the perinatal setting, the development of a Virtual Competency-Based Orientation Program (CBO) toolkit is vital. Two toolkits, namely the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health (AIM) and the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative (CMQCC), have been identified as effective in enhancing perinatal outcomes. AIM is a national initiative focused on improving maternal health outcomes, promoting safer birth practices, and saving lives through the implementation of best practices. CMQCC is a multi-stakeholder organization in California committed to eliminating preventable morbidity, mortality, and racial disparities in maternity care. Both AIM and CMQCC CBO toolkits incorporate research, quality improvement strategies, bundled care approaches, and collaborative outreach. The utilization of a bundled set of care strategies has been associated with positive outcomes in the maternal newborn setting. These open resource toolkits are designed to facilitate change readiness by engaging stakeholders in understanding the reasons for the proposed changes, gaining leadership support, assembling interprofessional implementation teams, and providing evidence-based information that demonstrates the need for orientation programs while identifying the necessary resources. The CBO outlined in this project serves as a guide for organizations of various backgrounds to effectively prepare, implement, and utilize for the promotion of best practices. The project follows the framework provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Key considerations, including staff training, workflow adjustments, and ongoing evaluation, are crucial to warrant successful implementation and sustainable improvements in practices especially involving maternal hemorrhage and sepsis. Among existing toolkits, the CMQCC and AIM safety bundles have been noted to be exemplary in improving outcomes in the perinatal setting.