This online fundamentals course equips participants with the essential knowledge for successful vacuum-assisted delivery. You will understand the obstetric conditions for the safe use of the vacuum extractor, and learn the 5-Step VaccaTechnique™. Additionally, there will be an opportunity to test your understanding before attending the hands-on practical workshop.

Objectives:

• Learn the key concepts of vacuum-assisted delivery.
• Understand the obstetric situations where the vacuum extractor can and cannot be used safely.
• Learn the 5-Step VaccaTechnique™ for effective and safe vacuum deliveries.
• Prepare for the practical workshop by testing your knowledge.

Learning Outcomes:

• Define the principles of vacuum-assisted delivery.
• Locate and describe the flexion point.
• Assess patient suitability for a vacuum-assisted delivery procedure.
• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of safety measures and procedural limits of VAD.
• Describe the 5 key steps of vacuum-assisted deliveries.
• Recognise early warning signs of subgaleal haemorrhage.
• Explain preventative measures and management of subgaleal haemorrhage.

Class Outline:

Lesson One: Introduction to the class, instructors, and usage guidelines

• Concepts: Overview of the course, Introduction to Aldo Vacca, Meet Belinda Vacca, Class completion guidelines, Course structure, Basics of vacuum delivery.

Lesson Two: Understanding technical principles, maneuverability, and vacuum cup selection

• Concepts: Assisted birth methods, Flexion point identification, Head positioning & diameters, Cup placement, Pelvic axis & axis traction.

Lesson Three: Step-by-step guide to vacuum delivery, focusing on technique and procedural steps

• Concepts: Flexion point location, Cup insertion calculation, Cup selection and maneuvering, Proper traction techniques, Pelvic floor phase, Cup detachment prevention.

Lesson Four: Obstetric conditions for the safe or unsafe use of the vacuum extractor

• Concepts: Operator experience, Safety measures before, during, and after delivery, Procedural limits, The 3+3 rule, Subgaleal hemorrhage prevention, Traction technique, Patient selection.

Lesson Five: Revision for the final certificate assessment

• Concepts: Contraindications, Safety protocols, Procedural limits, Prevention of subgaleal hemorrhage, Key principles, Correct procedure review, Further learning opportunities.

Acquire the hands-on technical skills for safe vacuum-assisted delivery in this practical workshop, using specialized medical manikins under the guidance of a master in the Vacca 5-Step technique.

Objectives:

• Master the practical steps of vacuum-assisted delivery.
• Review the Vacca 5-Step Technique in theory.
• Learn to apply the Vacca 5-Step Technique for various fetal positions.
• Gain experience through simulations and live feedback.

Learning Outcomes:

• Demonstrate the ability to accurately locate and attach the cup over the flexion point.
• Perform OA, OT, and OP vacuum-assisted deliveries in a simulated environment.
• Differentiate between the descent and pelvic floor phases during delivery.
• Recognize and follow procedural limits in practice to ensure safe and effective outcomes.

Workshop Outline:

Module 1: Welcome & Introductions

• Introduction to the workshop and a recap on the Fundamentals of Safe Vacuum Delivery.

Module 2: Practical Demonstration

• Learn the steps and principles of the vacuum delivery procedure.

Short Break: 15 minutes

Module 3: One-to-One Practical Tuition

• Practice the step-by-step procedure of vacuum delivery and familiarize yourself with the mechanics and common procedural steps for all vacuum deliveries with specialized VAD simulation manikins.

Module 4: Practical Assessment

• Perform three successful simulations in OA, OT, and OP positions respectively.

Module 5: Close & Discussion

• Recap with key takeaways, and opportunity to address any remaining questions.