Outcomes of Skill-Based Educational Program for Cervical Cancer Screening in India: A Pre–Post Evaluation Study
摘要
Visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA) has been endorsed by the World Health Organization for cervical cancer screening in resource-limited settings. However, challenges persist in ensuring consistent performance due to subjective assessment and variable training approaches. The present study aimed to assess the improvement in knowledge and skills of nursing professionals through the 10-day skill-based teaching program on cervical cancer screening by VIA and to obtain feedback on the training.
MethodsA skill-based training program on VIA for nursing professionals was conducted following the Indian National Programme for Prevention & Control of Non-Communicable Diseases guidelines. The program included interactive sessions, lectures, skill laboratory training, and hands-on practice. Training effectiveness was assessed through a 26-point skill test administered before and after training, with feedback provided after each assessment cycle. P-value was calculated using multilevel mixed-effects linear regression during different stages of training.
ResultsA total of 124 nurses completed the training program, exhibiting significant improvement in VIA-related knowledge and skills throughout the sessions. Skill-based tasks, such as pre-VIA preparations and performing VIA, showed high proficiency levels post-training. Notably, there was a marked enhancement in pre-VIA counseling skills. Feedback from participants highlighted the effectiveness of the training program.
ConclusionThis study underscores the effectiveness of a structured skill-based educational program in enhancing nursing professionals’ competence in cervical cancer screening using VIA. The standardized training approach contributes to building a skilled workforce capable of delivering quality cervical cancer screening services.