Abstract

In January 2019, Termination of Pregnancy (TOP) services were introduced in Ireland allowing the termination of pregnancies with < 12 weeks. We investigated staff knowledge and training on early TOP and views regarding challenges to successful integration of the service within a large maternity hospital. We distributed a questionnaire to clinical staff in 2019 to analyse the levels of TOP knowledge, the factors which might affect it, the training received and main challenges to the service. Just one-quarter of the 133 participants correctly answered all questions regarding current legislation, and 63.2% regarding complications. Males, people with a diploma/certificate-level of education, or individuals younger than 30 years had, overall, poorer knowledge on TOP. Participants in a ‘Medical’ job showed higher levels of knowledge. Most participants (88%) had not received training prior to introduction of TOP services. Of those who did, few (9%) believed it to be sufficient. Lack of training and education, staffing and resources were listed as the main challenges to the service. Low levels of knowledge among staff suggests that training is required to ensure the provision of a safe and effective TOP service. Our findings indicate that updated and clearer clinical guidance on TOP services is also needed.