An Evaluation of Nurses' Knowledge and Preparedness for Emergency Obstetric Care in Delta State University Teaching Hospital
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Background of the Study
Emergency obstetric care (EmOC) is critical in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, particularly in developing countries like Nigeria, where complications during pregnancy and childbirth remain a major public health concern (United Nations Population Fund [UNFPA], 2023). The ability of nurses to recognize, respond to, and manage obstetric emergencies such as postpartum hemorrhage, eclampsia, and obstructed labor can determine the survival of both mother and baby (Adeyemi & Musa, 2024).
Despite global and national efforts to improve maternal healthcare, Nigeria continues to experience high maternal mortality rates, partly due to inadequate healthcare infrastructure and poorly trained personnel (Eze et al., 2023). Nurses, who are often the first responders in labor wards, need to be well-equipped with the knowledge and skills required for handling obstetric emergencies (Chukwu & Bello, 2024). However, reports indicate that many nurses lack adequate training in key EmOC procedures, leading to delays in life-saving interventions (Okonkwo & Adegbite, 2024).
Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH) serves as a major maternal healthcare center, providing services to pregnant women with both routine and high-risk pregnancies. Evaluating nurses' knowledge and preparedness for EmOC in this institution is crucial to identifying gaps and strengthening emergency response systems in obstetric care.
Statement of the Problem
Maternal mortality remains a significant challenge in Nigeria, with many deaths resulting from preventable obstetric complications (Musa et al., 2023). The success of emergency obstetric care depends largely on the competence and preparedness of healthcare workers, particularly nurses, who play a frontline role in maternal health services (Bello & Yusuf, 2024). However, studies suggest that many nurses lack adequate knowledge of emergency protocols, leading to poor clinical decision-making and adverse patient outcomes (Okoro & Adebayo, 2024).
At DELSUTH, cases of obstetric emergencies such as severe preeclampsia, fetal distress, and ruptured uterus are frequently reported. While emergency obstetric care protocols exist, it is unclear whether nurses are adequately trained to implement them effectively. This study aims to assess nurses' knowledge and preparedness for EmOC at DELSUTH, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in maternal health services.
Objectives of the Study
- To assess nurses' knowledge of emergency obstetric care procedures.
- To evaluate nurses' preparedness in handling obstetric emergencies at DELSUTH.
- To identify challenges affecting nurses' efficiency in emergency obstetric care.
Research Questions
- What is the level of nurses' knowledge of emergency obstetric care procedures?
- How prepared are nurses at DELSUTH for handling obstetric emergencies?
- What challenges hinder the effectiveness of nurses in emergency obstetric care?
Research Hypotheses
- Nurses at DELSUTH have adequate knowledge of emergency obstetric care procedures.
- There is a significant relationship between nurses' preparedness and their effectiveness in handling obstetric emergencies.
- Addressing challenges in EmOC training will significantly improve maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on nurses at DELSUTH, assessing their knowledge and preparedness for emergency obstetric care. Limitations include variations in nurses' levels of experience and potential differences in training received. Additionally, time constraints may limit the extent of direct observations in emergency scenarios.
Definitions of Terms
- Emergency Obstetric Care (EmOC): Immediate medical interventions required to manage life-threatening pregnancy and childbirth complications.
- Knowledge: The level of information and understanding that nurses possess about obstetric emergencies.
- Preparedness: The extent to which nurses are trained, equipped, and ready to handle emergency obstetric cases.
- Maternal Mortality: The death of a woman during pregnancy, childbirth, or within 42 days of delivery due to complications.
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