Purpose: To increase medical student’s knowledge, behavior and belief
systems regarding hypertension (HTN) in pregnancy and prenatal aspirin (PNA).
To increase patient\\\'s understanding regarding the complications of HTN in
pregnancy and the benefits of PNA.
Background: Prenatal aspirin (81 mg) has been recommended by ACOG
for high-risk women and women with >1 moderate risk factor. Its use reduces
the rate of preeclampsia, preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction and
fetal death in at-risk patients. In a survey conducted at Boston Medical
Center, the incidence of hypertension in pregnancy is 30%, with only 15% of
patient having heard of PNA, demonstrating high prevalence and low patient
literacy regarding the topic.
Methods: Ob/Gyn clerkship students are instructed to educate
patients regarding: knowledge of HTN in pregnancy, warning signs of
preeclampsia, and efficacy of PNA in pregnancy. The student educational
intervention was evaluated regarding: satisfaction, knowledge, confidence, and
belief systems by surveys at the beginning and end of the clerkship. Patient
education was evaluated by pre and post intervention metrics.
Results: Student knowledge of PNA and HTN increased 35%,
confidence 45% and belief systems 14%. They gave the project a 72%
satisfaction rating. Patient’s knowledge about HTN increased 48%, warning
signs 80%, and understanding of efficacy of PNA 65%.
Discussions: Medical student health counseling increased patient knowledge
regarding HTN and PNA. By educating patients, students also increased their
knowledge and confidence in the subject. We plan to continue implementing this
QI project throughout the year to augment a departmental QI initiative and
evaluate its benefit to patients and students.
Topics: CREOG & APGO Annual Meeting, 2019, Student, Resident, Faculty, Clerkship Director, Clerkship Coordinator, Osteopathic Faculty, Residency Director, Residency Coordinator, Patient Care, Medical Knowledge, Systems-Based Practice & Improvement, Interpersonal & Communication Skills, UME, Quality & Safety, Advocacy,
Alex Francoeur, Medical Student, Boston University
School of Medicine; Jodi Abbott, MD MHCM; Pooja Vyas, MD; Andrea Molina, MD