Abstract Details
9/09/2025 | 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM | Breakout 5 | Memorial Hall
Congenital CMV Knowledge, Practices and Beliefs Among Maternal Child Nursing
Abstract Summary
Background: Congenital Cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is a common intrauterine infection affecting 1 in 200 live births. It can lead to serious complications, including sensorineural hearing loss, neurodevelopmental delays, and cerebral palsy. Despite its high prevalence and severe outcomes, cCMV is often under-recognized by both healthcare professionals and the general public. Purpose: This study examines nurses' knowledge, beliefs, and practices in maternal-fetal and neonatal health in U.S. states where cCMV screening is not standardized. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 1,000 nurses affiliated with the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses in states that do not have standardized screening for cCMV. Out of those, 215 eligible participants responded anonymously. Their responses were analyzed to assess knowledge scores and beliefs regarding cCMV. Participants were incentivized with a $10 gift card for their participation. Data analysis was evaluated using ANOVA and Spearman rho correlation. Results: Nurses' knowledge of cCMV was limited, with an average score of 3.39 out of 10. Only 31.6% of respondents could accurately identify the prevalence of cCMV, and awareness of critical symptoms varied significantly among them. While 64% recognized low birth weight as a potential indicator, only 25.6% identified elevated liver enzymes. Additionally, awareness of the risks associated with asymptomatic cCMV was low; less than half of the respondents acknowledged the potential for delayed-onset hearing loss. Conclusions and Implications: The survey results reveal that nurses have significant knowledge gaps regarding cCMV. Recognizing its prevalence, clinical symptoms, and potential long-term effects, nurses can effectively participate in identifying and managing cCMV, ultimately leading to better outcomes for affected children. Early detection and intervention are vital in managing cCMV. There is a need for improved educational efforts and training programs to enhance nurses' knowledge of this common yet often overlooked condition.
Learning Objectives
- Assess nursing knowledge and awareness of cCMV: Evaluate nurses understanding of cCMV, inhcluding its prevalence, clinical symptoms, and associated long-term effects in states without standardized cCMV screening.
- Identify knowledge gaps in cCMV detection and management: Determine specific areas where nurses lack knowledge, such as recognizing asymptomatic cases and understanding indicators like elevated liver enzymes, to highlight training needs.
- Support educational initiatives for improved cCMV management: Advocate for enhanced educational programs and training to equip nurses with the skills needed for early detection and intervention in cCMV cases, aiming to improve outcomes for affected infants.
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Presenters
Michelle Zappas | POC-Point of Contact, Primary Presenter, Co-Author
zappas@usc.edu;
Michelle Zappas is a Family Nurse Practitioner, academic, and researcher committed to advancing disability-informed care and promoting health equity. She serves as the Program Director and Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Southern California (USC), where she incorporates disability awareness and social determinants of health into nursing education.
Dr. Zappas's research focuses on healthcare disparities affecting disabled populations, particularly individuals with congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) and neurodevelopmental disorders. Her professional experiences, combined with her journey as a mother of a child with a disability, fuel her dedication to improving healthcare accessibility through evidence-based policy and practice. She has published work on disability health disparities, the deaf and hard-of-hearing population, and the psychosocial impacts of cCMV. As a passionate mentor and advocate, Dr. Zappas collaborates across disciplines to address systemic barriers in healthcare.
ASHA DISCLOSURE
Financial - No relevant financial relationship exists.
Nonfinancial - Has a Personal (Volunteer for CMV Foundation ) relationship for Other volunteer activities.
AAA DISCLOSURE
Financial - Receives support from National CMV Foundation for ). We received funding of $7500 from the Congenital Cytomegalovirus Foundation to support this program, which allowed us to offer gift cards to participants..
Ruth Foreman | Co-Presenter, Co-Author
foremanr1@duq.edu;
ASHA DISCLOSURE
Financial -
Nonfinancial -
AAA DISCLOSURE
Financial - No relevant financial relationship exists.