The Partograph: Knowledge, Attitude, and Utilization by Professional Birth Attendances in Port-Said and Ismailia Cities
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- Category: Vol. 78, June 2010
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The Partograph: Knowledge, Attitude, and Utilization by Professional Birth Attendances in Port-Said and Ismailia Cities,NAGAT S. SALAMA, INAS M. ABD ALLAH and MANAR F. HEEBA
Abstract
The partograph has been proven to be the single most important tool that when effectively used, any deviations from normal can be quickly detected and actions taken in good time. The aims of this study were to assess the existing knowledge, attitude and practice of professional birth attendants (PBAs) (Nurses/Physicians) regarding the use of partograph as well as to explore the factors limiting its use in the Health Centers and District Hospitals in Port-Said and Ismailia cities. A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted on 103 professional birth attendances (Nurses and Physicians). Two tools were used to collect the data named self administered questionnaire, was used to collect the necessary data in relation to the PBAs' knowledge and attitude toward partograph and revision audit to evaluate the accuracy of recording data on partograph. Results of the study revealed that the majority of nurses (91.3%) had an unsatisfactory score of knowledge regarding using of partograph, while more than half of phy-sicians (55.9%) had a satisfactory score. The great majority of PBAs either physicians or nurses (97.1%, 91.3% respec-tively) had positive attitude toward partograph. Regarding the actual use of partograph, about two third of physicians and one fifth of the nurses, reported that they may use the partograph to manage a selected cases. The absence of obli-gation from health settings policy to perform the partograph was the most reason that limits its utilization as described by PBAs. In relation to the PBAs' accuracy in recording and plotted the data on partographs, there were incomplete and poor monitoring of parameters on the partograph against the recommended standards; that reflects poor skills of birth attendances on the use of a partograph. It recommended supporting usage of partograph in all institutions where women go for delivery services, and training all birth attendances on the use of the partograph and enforcing its use.