Initial management of primary postpartum hemorrhage: a survey

Abstract

Objective The objective of this study is to evaluate the actions taken by obstetricians when faced with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Materials and methods A standardized open-ended survey was applied to 235 physicians at five hospitals and at an obstetrics and gynecology conference, inquiring about which actions are recommended in the initial stages of PPH. We calculated the frequency and confidence intervals of the actions mentioned and correlated the number of actions with the number of clinicians mentioning them using Spearman’s rho test. Results Asking for help was mentioned by 45% of the respondents and 38% asked for vital signs. Only one-fifth of those surveyed asked for blood count, coagulation testing, arterial blood gas, or urinary catheter. Very few mentioned hypothermia prevention, oxygen administration, or blood transfusion. A total of 80% of those interviewed only mentioned 3 of the 16 recommended actions. Conclusion Postpartum hemorrhage training should include instructions on initial steps in order to improve treatment comprehension and outcomes.