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Needs Assessment to Inform and Improve Educational Practices Surrounding Omega-3 Consumption during Pregnancy

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Abstract

Objectives

Adequate dietary consumption of long chain omega-3 fatty acids (n-3 LCPUFA) during pregnancy has been associated with better maternal and infant health outcomes. Given that the primary source of n-3 LCPUFA is fish and fish oils, concerns surrounding contamination and uncertainty of safe fish intake guidelines have negatively affected consumption of fish during pregnancy. Although obstetric healthcare providers are in a unique position to influence dietary intake patterns, a gap exists in their understanding the knowledge and practices surrounding n-3 LCPUFA. This needs assessment investigation evaluated knowledge, attitudes and prescribing/recommending practices of obstetric practitioners surrounding n-3 LCPUFA consumption and/or supplementation to generate evidence supporting the development of targeted educational initiatives.

Methods

A cross-sectional, needs assessment was conducted using anonymous online-survey of affiliate members of the American College of Nurse Midwives (N = 105). A 24-item, previously validated (α = 0.86) needs assessment survey (Obstetric Clinicians Omega-3 Survey, OCOS) was used to assess attitudes, knowledge, and prescribing practices surrounding n-3 LCPUFA.

Results

The total OCOS score representing attitudes, knowledge and prescribing patterns collectively was 69.48% (Mean = 79.90(± 12.44), score range = 24–115). Scores for the sub-domains included attitude 68.33% (Mean = 20.50(± 3.64), score range = 6–30); knowledge 71.40% (Mean = 30.70(± 5.43), score range = 9–43); and prescribing patterns 68.31% (Mean = 28.69(± 5.39), score range = 9–42).

Conclusions for Practice

Although the majority of respondents had fair-moderate n-3 LCPUFA knowledge, attitudes and prescribing/recommending, our results highlight an opportunity for additional research and educational outreach targeting improved n-3 LCPUFA knowledge and practices. Specific areas of educational interest included associated health outcomes, dosing and safe consumption guidelines.

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Acknowledgements

This project was supported by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and technical support was provided through the University of Connecticut School of Nursing. Surveys were distributed through state affiliates of the American College of Nurse Midwives.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Statistics, University of Connecticut School of Nursing, 231 Glenbrook Road, Unit 2026, Storrs, Mansfield, CT, 06269-2026, USA

    Michelle P. Judge, R. Lucas, Corrinne Kuzoian, Jing Wu, Kaydeen Maitland & Colleen Delaney

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  1. Michelle P. Judge
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  2. R. Lucas
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  3. Corrinne Kuzoian
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Correspondence to Michelle P. Judge.

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Judge, M.P., Lucas, R., Kuzoian, C. et al. Needs Assessment to Inform and Improve Educational Practices Surrounding Omega-3 Consumption during Pregnancy. Matern Child Health J 25, 192–197 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10995-020-03090-3

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