Community-Based Training Model for Practical Nurses in Maternal and Child Health Clinics

• Author(s): Akonasu Qudus Hungbo ; Christiana Adeyemi
• Paper ID: 1709974
• Page: 217-235
• Published Date: 28-02-2019
• Published In: Iconic Research And Engineering Journals
• Publisher: IRE Journals
• e-ISSN: 2456-8880
• Volume/Issue: Volume 2 Issue 8 February-2019

Abstract

Maternal and child health (MCH) remains a global health priority, particularly in underserved communities where access to skilled healthcare providers is limited. Practical nurses play a crucial role in delivering frontline care; however, traditional training models often lack contextual relevance to community-based settings. This study presents a Community-Based Training Model (CBTM) designed to equip practical nurses with essential competencies for effective service delivery in maternal and child health clinics. The model was developed through participatory engagement with health educators, community health workers, and practicing nurses across four rural districts. Core training modules emphasized antenatal care, postnatal follow-up, immunization, growth monitoring, family planning counseling, and emergency response readiness. A pilot implementation of the CBTM involved 60 practical nursing trainees over a six-month period, using blended learning approaches that combined classroom instruction, simulation-based exercises, and supervised clinical rotations in community clinics. Pre- and post-training assessments were used to evaluate knowledge acquisition, clinical skills, and confidence in handling MCH cases. Results indicated a 47% improvement in overall clinical competence scores and a significant increase in nurse-led community outreach activities. Participants reported greater confidence in managing common maternal and pediatric conditions, improved communication with patients, and stronger collaboration with other health workers. Stakeholders noted enhanced patient trust and continuity of care in clinics where trainees were placed. The CBTM was also found to foster culturally sensitive care and strengthen the pipeline of skilled maternal and child health providers in low-resource areas. Challenges included logistical constraints during field placements and the need for sustained mentorship. Recommendations include integration of the model into nursing curricula, expansion to urban settings, and alignment with national health workforce policies. This study concludes that the CBTM offers a scalable and sustainable approach to improving maternal and child health outcomes by bridging the gap between nursing education and real-world community healthcare demands.

Keywords

Maternal And Child Health, Practical Nurse Training, Community-Based Model, Primary Healthcare, Clinical Competence, Rural Health, Nurse Education, Community Clinics, Health Workforce Development, MCH Services.

Citations

IRE Journals:
Akonasu Qudus Hungbo , Christiana Adeyemi "Community-Based Training Model for Practical Nurses in Maternal and Child Health Clinics" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals Volume 2 Issue 8 2019 Page 217-235

IEEE:
Akonasu Qudus Hungbo , Christiana Adeyemi "Community-Based Training Model for Practical Nurses in Maternal and Child Health Clinics" Iconic Research And Engineering Journals, 2(8)