Evaluation of an embryology and genetic testing patient counseling education intervention for reproductive endocrinology nurses

Objective: To study the impact of an educational program on the knowledge base of reproductive endocrinology nurses on embryology and genetics topics to determine both improvement in knowledge and confidence in the nurses' ability to counsel patients on such topics. Design: Interventional study. Setting: Clinics. Patient(s): None; subjects were reproductive endocrinology nurses. Intervention(s): Preintervention knowledge self-efficacy test, educational exposure, and 2-week follow-up testing. Main Outcome Measure(s): Knowledge test scores, self-efficacy scores. Result(s): Nurses, regardless of educational attainment, demonstrated statistically significant increases in knowledge of both embryology and genetics, which was retained at least 2 weeks after the educational intervention. Furthermore, nurse self-efficacy increased after intervention, and qualitative data support the desire for increased educational opportunities. Conclusion(s): Nurses benefit from focused educational efforts, resulting in improved knowledge in embryology and genetics. This improved knowledge base resulted in improved nurse confidence in patient education.