P0325 - Efficacy of a Pediatric Resident Developed Educational Module in Increasing Resident Knowledge of Donor Milk

Background:
The AAP recommends the use of pasteurized donor human milk (DHM) for preterm infants with very low birth weight (VLBW) infants (< 1500 g) when own mother’s milk is inadequate or unavailable. Pasteurized donor milk, when provided as a sole diet or in conjunction with mother’s own milk for preterm infants, is protective against necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). Knowledge of donor milk is vitally important for pediatric residents who manage the care of VLBW infants in the NICU.

Aim:
The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate an educational module for pediatric residents to improve knowledge of donor human milk for preterm infants.

Methods:
This was an educational intervention study that included the development of a module regarding the knowledge and use of donor human milk for VLBW infants. Developed by pediatric residents for use by pediatric residents and medical students, the module underwent expert validity by neonatologists specializing in human milk. A convenience sample of 20 pediatric residents and medical students completed the modular study during a designated lecture period. All participants were invited to complete a pre & post-tests. Data was collected and analyzed by t-test with SPSS 25.

Results:
Participants scores increased from a mean pretest score of 19.8+1.6 to posttest score 23.5+1.5 (P = 0.000). The percentage of correct answers was 48.2+10.5% prior to the module and improved to 73.4+9.0% post-survey (P=0.000). Pediatric residents’ mean confidence level was 3.4+0.7 prior and increased to 4.4+0.9 after completing the module (P=0.002). Resident knowledge significantly improved in multiple subject areas, including eligibility criteria for donor milk, process to eliminate non-infectious contaminant of DHM, process of pasteurization and benefits of DHM.

Conclusions:
While traditionally pediatric residents are the recipients of educational interventions, in the present study, they demonstrated the ability to become the educators to develop this educational intervention. Scores for the pediatric residents and medical students who attended a modular program resulted in increased confidence level and knowledge of donor human milk.