Use of the partograph among medical personnel in Enugu, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the knowledge and use of the partograph among maternal care providers in Enugu Nigeria. Data were collected by administering a questionnaire survey among 200 doctors and 220 midwives who manage women in labor at primary and secondary levels of public and private maternity units. Results revealed that the majority of the respondents were of junior professional ranks (65%) and had been in practice for 10 years or less (77%). More than 75% were in the private sector while most of the doctors were general practitioners. Approximately 90% of the respondents had heard about the partograph. However knowledge on its correct use was only 33%. Even though many knew about the partograph only a few actually used it. This was probably attributable to the nonavailability of the partograph in the maternity units of the respondents. Results reveal that there is poor knowledge concerning the use of the partograph which most likely contributes to the continued increase in maternal mortality and morbidity due to prolonged labor.