Experiences of midwives on partogram usage in Mamusa municipality, North West Province

Abstract

Background: Partogram refers to a labour monitoring graphic tool that is used to enable midwives and obstetricians to detect complications early enough during labour so that action can be taken to provide quality midwifery care. The effective use of a partogram improves birth outcomes. The partogram is divided into two phases, latent and active for maternal and foetal observations. The partogram documents the key aspects such as the foetal condition, maternal condition, contractions, progress of labour and management where applicable. Midwives generally perceive the partogram as a midwifery record and not necessarily as a labour monitoring tool. Consequently, this attitude has made it difficult for them to identify complications of labour on time. Most cases of maternal mortality and complications could be prevented by using cost effective and affordable health intervention like the partogram. Objectives: To explore and describe the experiences of midwives on partogram usage in Mamusa municipality, North-West province. Methodology: A qualitative-explorative and descriptive design was used to meet the objectives of the study. The purposive sampling technique was used to select participants. Unstructured interviews were conducted virtually through google meet. The researcher appointed a co-coder to analyse data. Procedures of trustworthiness were adhered to. Results: Two main themes emerged which are positive and negative experiences on the use of the partogram. Findings were discussed and integrated with literature. Conclusion: Improvements on the usage of the partogram were suggested. Recommendations were formulated for nursing practice, education, and research.