Managing hypertensive disorders during pregnancy in low resource settings

Abstract

Background: Maternal deaths caused by hypertensive disorders are preventable. The purpose was to assess midwives’ perceived knowledge and skills on the implementation of maternal health guidelines when managing hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Methods: Quantitative, cross-sectional method was used. Population comprised of 200 midwives. Data was collected through self-report questionnaires and analysed through Statistical Package for Social Sciences 24. Results: Midwives (63.5%) possessed knowledge and skills of implementing maternal guidelines. While 77.5% experienced shortage of human and material resources. Non-compliance to ambulance services led to delayed initiation of treatment. Recommendations: Continuous in-service training and education must be conducted. More resources to be provided to implement guidelines accurately.

Keywords

• hypertensive disorders in pregnancy
• implementation of guidelines
• midwives
• perceived knowledge and skills