Health professionals’ perspectives on the role of obstetric ultrasonography in maternity care in rural eastern Ethiopia: a qualitative descriptive study

Abstract

Objective The purpose of this exploratory study was to assess healthcare providers’ perspectives on maternity care following the introduction of ultrasound services in the area.Design The qualitative descriptive study.Study setting This study was carried out in health centres under Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) pregnancy surveillance catchment areas in Kersa, Haramaya and Harar districts in eastern Ethiopia.Participants The study participants were 14 midwives working in the maternity units and 14 health centre managers in the respective health facilities. Purposive sampling was used to select participants for in-depth interviews using a semistructured interview guide. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.Results We identified one overarching theme 'improved perinatal care' and six subthemes. Based on the accounts of the participants, the introduction of ultrasound services has led to a remarkable transformation in the overall provision of maternity care at health centres. The participants have reported a substantial rise in the utilisation of antenatal, delivery and postnatal care services. The availability of ultrasound has enabled midwives to deliver comprehensive maternity care.Conclusion Ultrasound service utilisation at health centres improves maternity care. The utilisation of ultrasound in healthcare enables providers to closely monitor the growth and development of the fetus, identify potential complications or abnormalities and administer timely interventions. This integration of ultrasound technology translates into enhanced prenatal care, early detection of issues and prompt management, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for both the mother and the baby.