Training for Early-Onset Pre-eclampsia Risk Factor Screening to Improve Midwives’ Knowledge in Primary Care: A Brief Quasi-experimental Study

Background: Screening for maternal risk factors by primary health providers is essential for managing early-onset pre-eclampsia (EOPE) and reducing maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Effective prevention requires well-trained healthcare professionals, particularly midwives, but knowledge gaps remain key barriers to optimal management. Objectives: The present study aimed to assess the level of improvement in midwives’ knowledge after training in EOPE risk factor screening. Methods: This quasi-experimental study employed a pretest-posttest design and prospectively enrolled a convenience sample of 85 midwives from Banyumas city, Central Java, Indonesia. A non-probability consecutive sampling technique was used. The study was conducted in October 2021. Training was delivered over 2 days using case-based learning, consisting of four sections: Material presentation, material discussion, scenario presentation, and scenario discussion. Two scenarios were included. Knowledge was assessed using a validated and reliable researcher-developed questionnaire. McNemar and Wilcoxon tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: Training in EOPE risk factor screening significantly improved midwives’ knowledge, with a 57.6% increase in overall scores (P < 0.001). Almost all participants (98.8%) demonstrated marked improvement in recognizing EOPE risk identification criteria (P < 0.05). Conclusion: Early-onset pre-eclampsia risk factor screening training is essential for enhancing midwives’ knowledge and supporting timely preventive care in primary settings.