Applicability and Adherence to Essential Practices of WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist at Ain Shams Maternity Hospital (ASMH)

Abstract

Background It is vital to comply with evidence-based essential birth practices to improve both maternal and neonatal health. The WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist (SCC) is a facility-based reminder tool that focuses on necessary care to improve intrapartum care quality. Objective To measure applicability and adherence of healthcare providers to essential practices as required by WHO safe childbirth checklist (SCC) at Ain Shams Maternity Hospital (ASMH). Methods A Prospective study was conducted to observe and follow a sample of childbirths presented at Ain Shams Maternity Hospital (ASMH) through the 4 pause points [on admission, just before the woman starts pushing (or before caesarean section), within 1 hour after births and before discharge from the facility]. Results A total of 221 childbirths were included and followed in the study, with mothers’ average age of (30+6) years and mean gestational age was (37±2) weeks. Only one WHO SCC practice (maternal referral) was not applicable in ASMH, however, the rest of the recommended practices were applicable with total adherence of 94.7%. Non adherent practices were encouraging companion to attend birth and length of stay after childbirth 24 hours. Conclusion ASMH was highly adherent to WHO SCC evidence-based practices; however, two practices were not adopted by the hospital policy. Recommendation It is recommended to review the hospital policies to allow birth companion to attend delivery and extend length of stay after vaginal delivery to 24 hours.