Date of Award

Spring 5-16-2020

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Dr. Trina Larery [email protected]

Second Advisor

Dr. Karen Johnson [email protected]

Third Advisor

Dr. Anuradha Ghosh [email protected]

Fourth Advisor

Dr. Gena Coomes [email protected]

Abstract

Pertussis is a contagious respiratory disease that can occur in all age groups. Signs and symptoms of pertussis, however, are worse in infants and young children; likewise, the rates of severe cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are higher in this group as well. Vaccination against pertussis is the most effective way to combat this illness. In the last 15 years, there have been a number of changes in the recommendations regarding vaccination against pertussis. In order for these recommendations to be followed, healthcare professionals must be aware of the guidelines as well as be knowledgeable about the condition they are trying to prevent.

This study evaluated the knowledge and practice of obstetrics healthcare professionals in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, regarding maternal pertussis vaccination strategies and timing. It assessed their perceived knowledge and practice before an educational in-service regarding pertussis prevention strategies specifically related to pertussis vaccination and pregnancy. Immediately following the educational in-service, healthcare professionals were asked to report whether they had an increase in knowledge regarding pertussis and vaccination strategies and whether they plan to change their practice in the future as a result of information received. The participants of this study reported having an increase in knowledge regarding pertussis and vaccination strategies, as well as an intention to use the information in the future for patient education.

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