Case Reporting of Maternal Deaths in Nigeria: A Survey of Obstetricians

Abstract

Context: Accurate data on maternal deaths is of public health concern. In Nigeria, a country with one of the highest rates of maternal mortality in the world, little is known of how such information is managed. Objective: To determine case reporting of maternal deaths among Nigerian obstetricians and make policy recommendations on improving the reporting. Study Design: A descriptive study was conducted among Nigerian obstetricians attending an annual national conference. A structured questionnaire was used in eliciting relevant information. Main Outcome Measure: Rate of case reporting of maternal deaths. Results: One hundred and five obstetricians were involved in the study. Nearly 42% affirmed case reporting of maternal deaths at their hospital of practice. More than 54% of respondents (49.5% of study population) did not routinely report cases. There was lack of uniformity in the processes and procedures for case reporting. Conclusion: The majority of practicing obstetricians in Nigeria are not involved in routine case reporting of maternal deaths. Strategies for a uniform approach are suggested. Key Words: Maternal Deaths, Case Reporting, Autopsy, Nigeria. [Trop J Obstet Gynaecol, 2002, 19: 30-31].