AN EVALUATION OF THE ADEQUACY OF HEALTH VISITOR EDUCATION FOR NEONATAL HIP SCREENING

Congenital dislocation of the hip (CDH) affects two children per 1000, with potentially serious consequences. Student health visitors in Nor thern Ireland learn screening techniques for CDH at a half-day worksho p at a regional hospital. In order to evaluate the adequacy of this pr eparation, 71 qualified health visitors were surveyed to assess their knowledge relating to CDH, their views on the adequacy of the training , and their opinions about referral of positive cases. Knowledge in so me areas was poor and preparation was considered too short. Direct ref errals of positive cases to orthopaedic clinics, without a general pra ctitioner acting as an intermediary, was a frequently cited desire. Re commendations include extending the training for those involved in CDH screening while ensuring that experienced health visitors, from whom novices learn, are themselves using correct procedures.