Journal of Japan Academy of Midwifery
Online ISSN : 1882-4307
Print ISSN : 0917-6357
ISSN-L : 0917-6357
Original articles
Qualitative evaluation of an e-learning programme for nurses to facilitate mother–infant bonding in the early postpartum period
Yasue OTA
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JOURNAL FREE ACCESS

2021 Volume 35 Issue 1 Pages 22-35

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Abstract

Objectives

This study aimed to introduce an e-learning programme for nurses engaged in mother and infant care in the early postpartum period to facilitate mother–infant bonding in this period, and to qualitatively evaluate the effectiveness of the programme through how nurses utilize acquired knowledge and skills during care sessions and looking at verbal, behavioural, and cognitive changes of nursing professionals.

Methods

The three-hour e-learning programme has three steps based on the learning goals. Participant observations were conducted during care sessions to collect data about verbal and behavioral changes before and after the programme intervention. Data were analysed based on case analysis. Cognitive changes were assessed using reflective interviews.

Results

Study participants were 17 nurses. 52 interactions before intervention and 51 interactions after intervention were analysed. For verbal changes, 13 of the 17 participants appeared to improve their responsiveness toward infants by becoming more attentive to infant behaviours and responding to them in an appropriate manner. Results also showed enhancements in participant role model behaviours around building relationships with infants. These nursing professionals' enhanced behaviours appeared to inspire mothers to imitate nursing professionals' interactions with infants. With respect to their relationships with mothers, the nurses appeared to respond to the mothers' feelings and needs and treated them with affection and supportive attitudes. In terms of cognitive changes, nursing professionals appeared to recognise the importance of observing infant behaviours, and engaging in self-reflection about their previous methods of mother–infant care that tended to overemphasise breast management and nurse-centred activities.

Conclusion

Post-programme results demonstrated that a verbal and behavioral change in which nurses encouraged role behaviors that promoted mother-infant bonding, indicating a cognitive transformation of new recognition and reflection on their own mother-infant care that they had been performing.

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© 2021 Japan Academy of Midwifery
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