O49 - Stillbirth Investigations and Shared Decision Making - Healthcare Professional learning needs

Abstract

As part of the South Australian Stillbirth Autopsy and Investigations Project (SAIP), a staff survey was conducted across medical, midwifery and Aboriginal maternal infant care workers. The survey asked staff 12 questions focusing on capability, capacity and confidence regarding stillbirth investigations, shared-decision making with parents in regards to autopsy and investigations processes and consent and provision of bereavement care (including awareness of ‘protective parenting’) that underpins these crucial conversations. The staff survey formed a key element in the development of the online education for health care professionals aiming to improve capability, capacity and confidence of staff discussing, consenting, communicating stillbirth investigations process and autopsy for women experiencing a stillbirth. 157 respondents completed the survey. Few staff indicated that they had formal education in counselling bereaved parents. Key learning areas identified included location and use of the Stillbirth Investigations Algorithm, benefits and limitations of autopsy, what is involved in the different types of autopsy and how a baby would look afterwards. Additionally gaps were identified in process knowledge, including transport of babies, time required for autopsy, time before results are ready and funeral home arrangements. The other major learning need that emerged was cultural and/or religious considerations that may impact decision-making, including potential for involvement of cultural or religious leaders and how to approach this with parents. The identification of key learning areas has enabled the creation of a robust education program directly created to meet staff learning needs. Building the capacity, capability and confidence of the staff with stillbirth investigations and shared-decision making will in turn improve the care for parents, facilitate crucial conversations and improve the uptake of stillbirth investigations on a state wide level.