The Master’s thesis by researcher Badia Khamis Hilal was discussed at the College of Nursing, University of Baghdad, in the Diploma Hall. titled “The Effectiveness of a Self-Study Module on Nurses’ Knowledge and Practices Regarding Infection Control Strategies in Delivery Rooms,” under the supervision of Assistant Professor Dr. Noor al-Huda Khalil Ibrahim.
The study primarily aimed to determine the impact of self-directed learning modules on the knowledge and practices of nurses working in delivery rooms regarding infection control strategies, and to compare the effectiveness of this educational approach with routine training methods in increasing adherence to preventive protocols, as well as to determine the nature of the relationship between the nurses’ sociodemographic characteristics and the effectiveness of the adopted training.
The study’s results and conclusions demonstrated the effectiveness of self-directed learning modules in improving the knowledge level and professional performance of nurses in high-risk delivery settings, as statistically significant differences were recorded between the pre- and post-tests in favor of the educational intervention. This demonstrated the ability of structured educational programs to bridge skill and knowledge gaps and to provide a sustainable, flexible, low-cost training strategy that is widely applicable in healthcare institutions.
Based on the research findings, the study recommended the adoption of self-directed learning modules within mandatory continuing education programs for nursing staff in delivery rooms, and the integration of periodic assessments of compliance with standard precautions into quality standards and institutional accreditation, along with providing the necessary resources to support training in critical care units and conducting future studies to measure the long-term clinical impact on infection reduction rates and the safety of mothers and children. Following an extensive academic discussion, the researcher’s efforts culminated in the thesis being awarded a grade of “Very Good.”
The findings of this study are consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals that the College of Nursing at the University of Baghdad seeks to promote, particularly Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and Goal 4 (Quality Education), through the development of specialized nursing competencies and the reduction of infections acquired during childbirth to ensure a safe and healthy environment.
