Abstract
ObjectiveTo explore implementation of the modified early obstetric warning system (MEOWS) in practice to further understanding about the influence of contextual factors.MethodsAn ethnographic study using observations (>120 h), semi-structured interviews...
Highlights
In the UK overall, there has been a small but welcome decline in maternal death rates, against a backdrop of increasing birth rates and an older and less healthy population of mothers.[1]
At the time of the study, Eastward provided an Obstetric Unit (OU), a mixed high and low risk care environment, while Westward provided an Alongside Midwifery Unit (AMU) providing care for women classed as low risk which was situated on the same floor as their OU
For the purpose of this paper, these final themes have been grouped into three organising themes: (1) the value of modified early obstetric warning system (MEOWS)’ in facilitating response to complications; (2) the design ‘fit’ of the MEOWS in maternity; and (3) contextual influencing factors
Summary
In the UK overall, there has been a small but welcome decline in maternal death rates, against a backdrop of increasing birth rates and an older and less healthy population of mothers.[1] for every death, nine women develop major obstetric complications,[2] including haemorrhage, infection, hypertensive disorders and thromboembolism.[1, 3] A recent confidential enquiry into maternal deaths in the UK [1] identified substandard care in a number of the cases. There have been calls for a modified early obstetric warning system (MEOWS) for routine use on all pregnant or postpartum women who have been admitted to hospital and require either obstetric or gynaecology services, in addition to those who have already been identified as critically ill.[1, 3] Use of the MEOWS is included in the maternity risk management standards set by the NHS Litigation authority.[4]
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