P29 - Evidence-based Complementary and Integrative Health innovative postgraduate course: Together we learn

Abstract

Increasingly, Complementary and Integrative Health modalities (previously known as CAM) are used by many women/people in the perinatal period. Current literature recognises the need to ensure these practices cause no harm and enhance childbearing women well-being. Midwives need to have evidence-based knowledge of CIH modalities and practices so that they can assist childbearing women to make informed decisions in the use of these modalities. This presentation will outline the development, implementation, and evaluation of an online course “Evidence-based Complementary and Integrative Health (CIH)” for undergraduate and postgraduate midwifery and nursing students. This 12-week course commenced in 2021 at a NSW University and examines the history and philosophical approaches to CIH, professional and legal issues, indications and contraindications, as well as some practical techniques of 13 CIH modalities commonly used by patients/women. With ethics approval (UON 2021-0274) an anonymous online descriptive survey was distributed to all enrolled students (n=28) six weeks after completing the course. The survey tool consists of three sections: participants demographics; participants experience with course content, materials and lectures; and personal beliefs on CAM A total of 11 students responded: midwifery students (3), Registered nurses (2) and registered midwives (6). The majority of students found the course very worthwhile and useful with comments “great subject, very applicable to contemporary midwifery practice”, “I feel more confident, the information in this course had added to what I thought I knew before”, “interesting, relevant readings to share with others in the workplace” and “I definitely feel more prepared, I am able to source and provide evidence-based information”. This first offering of an evidenced based course on complementary therapies has enable students to use knowledge in the workplace and provide evidence-based information to women/people. Minor changes will be made based on students feedback, and further evaluation will be undertaken.