Results of a pilot project to evaluate Somali prenatal education videos in a clinical setting

Broad differences in pregnancy-related health care expectations exist between Somali women and obstetrics practitioners. Focus groups identifying key themes led to the development of six targeted prenatal educational videos in Somali. Originally developed for Somali TV, topics include preparation for pregnancy, nutrition and exercise, pregnancy myths and facts, the father's role, episiotomies, and cesarean sections. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the videos in a clinical setting. Patient acceptability and improved patient-provider communication were key outcomes. Study participants were recruited when presenting for regularly scheduled prenatal appointments. Programs were viewed prior to the clinical appointment and participants completed an 8-item survey. Following the clinical visit, providers completed a 4-item survey to indicate the video's helpfulness in facilitating patient-provider interaction. Sixteen patients (mean age 29.4 years, gravida 4.6, and para 3.0) viewed at least one video. Results showed that all women rated the videos as “appropriate for Somali patients”, 74% were rated as “extremely clear”, 61% indicated the information was “just the right amount” and “extremely helpful”. The language primarily spoken at home was Somali (69%) and 63% indicated Somali as the preferred language to receive their health information. Providers completing surveys indicated 36% of appointments were “more interactive” with 94% finding the videos as “somewhat” or “extremely helpful.” All providers “recommended” or “strongly recommended” that prenatal educational material be presented using a culturally-appropriate, video format. These results will inform a larger study measuring the quality of patient-provider communication comparing the intervention to a control group (standard of care).