Trauma-Informed Care Education Program to Increase Provider Confidence in Caring for Patients with Trauma

This scholarly project addressed the critical need for education on trauma-informed care and birth trauma among birth center providers and staff. The project aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of birth center professionals to better support birthing individuals who have experienced trauma, ensuring a more compassionate and effective care environment. A comprehensive educational program was administered to birth center midwives and staff exploring the principles of trauma-informed care, the psychological and physiological impacts of birth trauma, and evidence-based strategies for mitigating these effects. The curriculum of trauma-informed care included interactive training sessions using the City Birth Trauma Scale tool and resources tailored to the unique needs of the birth center staff. The outcomes of this initiative were evaluated through pre- and post-survey assessments and provider-reported utilization of childbirth screening and mental health referrals. Post-intervention surveys demonstrated an increase in provider knowledge and confidence. Confidence increases were statistically significant and providers reported an increase in screening for childbirth trauma and a doubling of referrals to mental health providers after this TIC program. The implications for future practice underscore the importance of integrating TIC education for birth center providers to enhance their ability to recognize and address the impact of trauma and improve patient outcomes while fostering an empathetic care environment.