Date of Graduation

Spring 5-15-2025

Document Access

Restricted Project/Capstone - USF access only

Degree Name

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

College/School

School of Nursing and Health Professions

Program

MSN project

First Advisor

Scout Hebinck, MSN, RNC-OB

Abstract

The Volunteer Doula Program at Hospital AB was implemented to address labor support, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many birthing individuals experienced increased emotional and physical isolation. Supported by existing literature on the benefits of doula care in improving birth outcomes and maternal satisfaction, this quality improvement project aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of integrating trained, non-clinical volunteer doulas into hospital-based maternity care. Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected through patient satisfaction surveys, doula intervention logs, nurse feedback surveys, nulliparous, term, singleton, vertex (NTSV) cesarean section rate comparisons, and debriefing sessions with staff and volunteers. Survey ratings averaged between 5.3 and 10.5 out of 15 across emotional and physical support domains, and 89% of nurses reporting that volunteer doulas were valuable during the labor process. A trend toward lower cesarean rates among patients who received doula support was also observed. Qualitative results show the emotional, informational, continuous labor support by birthing people and volunteer doulas. To promote collaboration between volunteer doulas and labor and delivery nurses, aligning with patient-centered maternity care, which is this organization's commitment. While some challenges were noted, such as early role clarification and documentation inconsistencies, these were addressed through targeted onboarding and communication strategies. The volunteer program demonstrates the value of integrating volunteer doulas into hospital systems and supports continued investment in training, education, and sustainable program development to further improve outcomes in maternal care.

Keywords: doula, volunteer doula, collaboration, labor and delivery, labor and delivery nurses

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