Visual estimation of postpartum blood loss during a simulation training: A prospective study

Abstract

ObjectiveThe objective of our study was to compare visually estimated blood loss (with collector bags and absorbent pads) during postpartum with the real volume during a simulation training. Study DesignThis study was conducted from May 23 to December 22, 2017 during training sessions on the theme of postpartum haemorrhage provided by the Elena perinatal network. 137 participants visually estimated the losses contained in 5 graduated collector bags (from 600 to 1800mL) and on 5 absorbent pads (from 200 to 1000mL). ResultsThe averages of the visual estimated blood loss were significantly different from the real value, except for absorbent pads containing 400mL of losses. The low volumes are better estimated for either the absorbent pads or collector bags (p<0.001). 57% of the volumes were underestimated with collector bags, 33% of the estimates were accurate to ± 50 mL. With absorbent pads, 51% of the estimates were underestimated, compared to 22%, that were accurate. ConclusionThe simulation training allows to test the capacities of visual estimation of blood loss by health professionals in order to improve them and to improve the maternal care during postpartum haemorrhage.