Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Degree

Master of Science

Program

Nursing

Supervisor

Dr. Yolanda Babenko-Mould

2nd Supervisor

Dr. Sandra Regan

Joint Supervisor

Abstract

Neonatal asphyxia is the leading cause of neonatal deaths in Rwanda. The Helping Babies Breathe (HBB©) course was initiated by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in 2010 to help in reducing neonatal mortality in resource limited areas. Little is known about nurses’ experiences of applying the knowledge and skills acquired from HBB© courses in Rwanda. This study aimed to explore nurses’ experiences of translating continuing professional development education utilizing the HBB© course to nursing practice in Rwanda. This study was conducted using a qualitative descriptive design. A convenience sample of 10 nurses participated in individual interviews. Three categories emerged from the analysis: 1) application of competencies acquired from education sessions to practice, 2) benefits of continuing professional development (CPD), and 3) facilitators and barriers to the application of competencies into practice. These study findings underscore a need to attend to the shortages of nurses and lack of neonatal resuscitation materials and equipment in Rwanda.

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