Evaluation of a training program for counselors in contraception and prevention of STIs and a website-based support system.

In Japan, the incidences of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are increasing among young people. To address these issues, we initiated the following steps: 1) processes supporting contraception and prevention of STIs were created for counseling and construction of an algorithm for that process; 2) a system was developed using a website to support the program for training counselors, and provide practical support during and after the training; and 3) a program for the counselor was developed and is being evaluated. The counseling process was visualized by an algorithm notion method developed by Tsuru et al. Participants registered on the website, enabling them to confirm the lecture contents, record their self studies and submit issues. In order to evaluate this program, a preliminary survey and short tests after the lectures were completed. Participants were nurse-midwives who graduated at a nursing university. 27 participants were expected to complete the program. The answer ratios in the short tests were significantly improved compared to them in the preliminary survey. All participants submitted issues via the website. Further development of the system is planned so that the website can provide practical support by trained counselors and build on the accumulated practical results. Further refinement of the developed algorithm is required so that trained counselors can use it regularly via the website.