The knowledge of basic neonatal resuscitation among midwives at district hospitals

[摘要] ENGLISH SUMMARY : Background:Globally there is an increase of neonatal deaths resulting in part from intra-partum asphyxia or hypoxia related to ineffective neonatal resuscitation at birth. Midwives can play a pivotal role in reducing neonatal deaths. The researcher was concerned about an increasing rate of early neonatal deaths, in the Chris Hani Health District, Eastern Cape. Consequently, a multi-pronged approach was put into place by the district, to address neonatal mortality by means of training midwives in basic neonatal resuscitation. The resulting question was whether the Chris Hani Health District midwives have the ability to conduct deliveries with the required knowledge in neonatal resuscitation, which could improve neonatal outcomes.Aim and objectives: The study aimed to determine the knowledge level of registered midwives with regards to basic neonatal resuscitation, in the Chris Hani Health District Hospitals in the Eastern Cape. The focus was on the identification of midwives' training, qualifications and experience in neonatal resuscitation; determining the knowledge of midwives on neonatal resuscitation at birth; and describing the relationships among the afore-mentioned.Methods: A quantitative approach with a descriptive correlational design was adopted. The sample included 110 registered midwives allocated in the maternity wards of the 13 district hospitals of the Chris Hani Health District.A structured self-administered questionnaire was developed specifically to determine the extent of midwives knowledge with regards to the resuscitation of neonates at birth. Data was analysed with STATA (version 13) programme.Results: The knowledge score of the participants ranged from 63% to 97%, with a mean of 79% (SD 7.8). An acceptable knowledge level was 80% or more. Though there were no relationships found between midwives' training, qualifications and their knowledge; years of experience as a midwife were found to be associated with knowledge of basic neonatal resuscitation. Although the knowledge scores were high, some midwives did not have adequate knowledge on critical components of neonatal resuscitation. Conclusion: The study underpins knowledge in empowering midwives to carry out basic neonatal resuscitation. Recommendations of the study include a retention strategy for advanced midwives; equipping advanced and / or experienced midwives to train and mentor young midwives in the profession; and a review of the need for training of midwives on neonatal resuscitation and its impact on their knowledge.These study findings and recommendations may strengthen the health systems that are in place to end preventable neonatal deaths; through imparting updated basic neonatal resuscitation knowledge to midwives.

[发布机构] Stellenbosch University