Maternal and neonatal health outcomes in the United States are a significant concern, with the nation experiencing higher maternal mortality rates than other high-income countries. According to the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN), approximately 700 women die each year in the U.S. due to pregnancy-related complications, with the majority of these deaths being preventable (AWHONN, 2024). Neonatal outcomes are also concerning, with 9.3% of babies born in the U.S. in 2019 requiring admission to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), highlighting the need for improved perinatal care and emergency preparedness (AWHONN, 2024). Racial disparities further compound these issues, as Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to White women, a statistic that highlights the urgent need for standardized, high-quality obstetric care across all populations (CDC, 2023). These statistics emphasize the critical need for enhanced training and preparedness among healthcare providers to effectively manage obstetric emergencies. Traditional training methods, such as lectures and case reviews, may not adequately prepare healthcare professionals for real-time decision-making in high-risk scenarios. Simulation-based training provides a controlled, hands-on learning environment where teams can develop technical skills, refine communication, and practice rapid response to obstetric complications, while also debriefing and discussing ways to improve in the event of real-life scenarios.  We want to make sure all staff are adequately trained and feel more confident during these emergencies.

Mandatory competency/drill day is designed to enhance the skills, confidence, and teamwork of nurses, providers, and support staff in both routine and emergency obstetric and neonatal scenarios. The simulation activity allows multidisciplinary teams to rehearse low-frequency, high-risk deliveries, improving technical proficiency, communication, and crisis management. The goal is to prepare staff for real-world labor and delivery situations through hands-on practice in a controlled, risk-free environment. By rehearsing real-life scenarios, staff refine their skills in assessment, clinical decision-making, emergency interventions, and teamwork—ultimately improving patient safety and outcomes. This education session will allow staff to practice managing critical obstetric emergencies, including shoulder dystocia, postpartum hemorrhage, maternal hypertensive crisis, and neonatal resuscitation.

References:

Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN). (2024). Maternal Morbidity and Mortality: Birth Equity in the U.S. Retrieved from https://www.awhonn.org 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Maternal Mortality Rates in the United States, 2021. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov