Effect of neonatal nurse mentorship in improving neonatal care competencies among neonatal nurses in Rwandan hospitals

Abstract

Abstract Background Despite healthcare improvements in Rwanda, newborn mortality remains high. This study assesses the impact of neonatal mentorship on enhancing nurses’ competencies within neonatal units, aiming to address this mortality concern and strengthen healthcare providers’ abilities. Methods The prospective cohort study included 25 health facilities supported by Ingobyi Activity in Rwanda, which were beneficiaries of a monthly mentorship program focusing on five critical neonatal competencies. These included adopt manipulation of neonatal equipment, effective management of small and sick newborns, stringent infection prevention and control (IPC), kangaroo mother care (KMC) implementation, and family‐centered care provision. We employed an observation checklist to measure neonatal practice competencies, comparing practices at the time point of the baseline, at the 6th mentorship session, and finally at the 12th mentorship session. Results The program engaged 188 neonatal nurse mentees. Data analysis highlighted a substantial increase in overall neonatal practice competencies from a baseline of 42.7%–75.4% after 12 mentorship sessions. Specific competency enhancements included family‐centered care (40.3%–70.3%), IPC (43.2%–84.2%), KMC (56.9%–73.3%), management of small and sick newborns (38.5%–77.6%), and manipulation of neonatal equipment (42.7%–75.4%). Conclusions This neonatal mentorship program was effective in enhancing nursing competencies, leading to significant improvements in neonatal care practices. Future work should evaluate the program's cost‐effectiveness and explore its potential to positively impact neonatal health outcomes, thus ensuring sustainable healthcare advancements.

Keywords

• clinical mentorship
• health facilities
• neonatal care competencies
• nurse