Application of evidence-based teaching in maternal and child health in remote Vietnam

ObjectiveTo develop, implement, and evaluate an evidence-based multidisciplinary teaching program to improve maternal and infant health in remote Vietnam.MethodsNeeds assessments identified prevention of infection, neonatal resuscitation, and prevention of postpartum hemorrhage as primary targets. A 3-day workshop based on the small group, interactive, skills-based SCORPIO method was developed. Participants underwent formative written and performance-based assessments. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of course content and teaching method was conducted.ResultsTwo annual workshops were conducted for 58 health professionals, all of whom demonstrated skills acquisition to an adequate standard on completion. The workshops were rated as good or excellent overall by 100% of the participants, who reported that the content would help with their clinical work and that the teaching method was acceptable and easy to understand.ConclusionWe demonstrated the SCORPIO method can be adapted to teach knowledge and clinical skills in remote Vietnam. Further work is needed to demonstrate an effect on health outcomes.