Educating antenatal patients about cytomegalovirus infection: An e-learning package improves general practitioners’ knowledge and intention to implement clinical guidelines

Abstract

Background and objective The Australian Government’s Living Evidence for Australian Pregnancy and Postnatal Care guideline recommend all pregnant women be informed about cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection risk-reduction strategies. The aim of this paper was to determine the effectiveness of the ‘Infections in Pregnancy‘ e-learning module in improving general practitioner (GP) knowledge, confidence in counselling and intended practice regarding CMV patient education. Methods This study used a pre-post quasi-experimental design. GPs undertaking the module in March to December 2023 completed questionnaires before and after completing the module. An adjusted linear mixed effects model was used to evaluate change in scores. Results Of 164 study participants, 94% had not previously received CMV prevention education. Total adjusted mean CMV knowledge scores and confidence in CMV counselling were significantly higher after completing the module (P<0.001). The proportion of GPs intending to counsel pregnant patients about CMV increased from 24% to 97% after completing the module. Discussion Targeted e-learning can improve GP knowledge and confidence, and can support the implementation of the national congenital CMV risk-reduction guidelines.