Maternal mortality at the National Referral Hospital in Honiara, Solomon Islands over a five-year period.

Abstract

The Solomon Islands is a developing country facing significant barriers to the provision of quality antenatal and obstetric care. The maternal mortality rate is 114/100000 live births, ranking the Solomon Islands 113th globally. Investigating maternal mortality may yield valuable insight into improving these numbers. The objective of this study was to review all cases of maternal mortality at the National Referral Hospital, Solomon Islands over a five-year period. This was a retrospective review of maternal deaths occurring at the National Referral Hospital, Solomon Islands from 2013 to 2017. Data on maternal demographics, characteristics and cause of death were collected. There were 39 maternal deaths at the National Referral Hospital from 2013 to 2017. The maternal mortality rate of the National Referral Hospital (139/100000) is higher than the national rate (114/100000). Most deaths were direct, with 28% attributed to haemorrhage. Overall, 79% of the total maternal deaths had elements that may be considered preventable, with laboratory delays present in 54% and medication shortages present in 29% of cases. Maternal mortality is high in the Solomon Islands, with many potentially preventable deaths occurring at the National Referral Hospital. Continued focus on improving data collection, access to resources, and training is vital to reduce maternal mortality in the Solomon Islands.