Self-assessment of nursing preparedness and knowledge in the care of patients with obstetric anal sphincter injuries and utilization of a computer-based learning module for continued nursing education in the United States

•Labor & delivery nurses have limited training in obstetric anal sphincter injuries.•Nurses feel confident caring for perineal injuries without formal training.•Computer based learning modules enrich nurse education on perineal injuries. Perineal injury is the most common complication of vaginal delivery, and labor and delivery (L&D) nurses are crucial in managing and educating women following perineal trauma. The aims of this study were to assess L&D nurse experience, knowledge, and self-perception of preparedness in caring for women with obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) and to compare pre- and post-test scores using a computer-based learning module (CBL) for OASIS nurse education. All L&D nurses were invited to complete a voluntary, self-assessment questionnaire inquiring about prior experience, training, and education and current clinical practice in caring for patients with OASIS. They were also asked to answer ten knowledge-based questions about OASIS. The primary outcome was change in pretest and posttest knowledge-based scores after completion of CBL. Forty-one L&D nurses voluntarily responded to the self-assessment survey. Of respondents, 20% answered they were “very comfortable”, 48% “comfortable”, 23% “neutral,” and 8% “uncomfortable” for caring for women with OASIS post-delivery. Fifty-three percent of reported having no formal education in nursing school about OASIS and 35% reported no formal training while at work. The average pretest knowledge test score was 66.3% and 93.5% (p