The Impact of Adopting UNICEF Maternity Modules on Nursing Students' Knowledge: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Background: Maternal health refers to women's health throughout pregnancy, childbearing, and the postnatal period. every phase should be a positive experience, assuring that women and their babies reach their full potential for health and well-being. Aim: The study aims to assess the impact of adopting UNICEF maternity modules on nursing students' knowledge. Design: A qualitative study design was used to conduct the study. Participants: 40 nursing students participated in the study. Methods: Four focus group interviews were conducted on nursing students, two groups of the traditional curriculum, and two groups who adopted the curriculum which was modified according to UNICEF modules for maternity. Setting(s): The study was conducted at the Islamic University of Gaza. Results: Most of the students who adopted the new curriculum mentioned that they have a lot of knowledge about maternity themes and subthemes while the students from the groups of the traditional curriculum mentioned that they have a knowledge deficit about it. Conclusion: The adopted curriculum which was modified according to UNICEF modules for maternity, effectively enhanced students' knowledge about maternity concepts. Recommendations: Nursing faculties need to modify their curriculum according to UNICEF modules to enhance nursing students' knowledge about maternity as proved by this study’s results, and this study will be a good base for other relevant research activities for nursing research interests.