Implementing minimum basic training for nurs es,midwives and CHEWs in limited obstetrics ultrasound (LOUS) in resource-scarce primary healthcare settings: the Borno state pilot experience

Abstract

The acute shortage of sonographers and healthcare providers with specialist training in sonography is a significant challenge to providing ultrasound services in primary healthcare centres in regions where resources are scarce. Objective: This study aimed to determine the feasibility of implementing POC USS training using the ISUOG guide for training ultrasound-naive healthcare providers in primary healthcare centres to achieve some level of competence in limited obstetric ultrasound. Methodology: A point-of-care obstetric ultrasound training program for primary healthcare providers was conducted in collaboration with the Borno State Primary Healthcare Development Board at the Mubil Women’s Outpatient Clinic and Ultrasound Services in Maiduguri. The target group consisted of nurses, midwives, and Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs). A five-day obstetric ultrasound training was conducted from December 16th to 20th, 2024. Using the six-step approach proposed by the International Society for Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ISUOG) as a guide for the training. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0 was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 3(50%) participants were Nurses/Midwives, while 3 (50%) were CHEWS, and 3 (50%) were computer literate, while 3(50%) were not. There was a significant difference in the participants' pre- and post-test performance, p < 0.05. There was uniform positive feedback from the participants regarding the content and scope of coverage and the nature of the training delivery. Conclusion: This pilot implementation has demonstrated that some level of ultrasound competency is achievable among ultrasound-naive Nurses/midwives and CHEWs within a
short timeframe using focused and intensive didactic and hands-on training.