Title: Emergency Obstetric Indices at the Federal Medical Centre Makurdi

Authors: Dr Ochejele Silas BM BCH, FWACS, Dr Omeche Adama BM BCH, Dr Attah Dangana Iliya, Dr Patience Odusolu,   Dr Patrick Haruna Daru BM BCH, FWACS

 DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v7i6.90

Abstract

Context: The Federal Medical Centre Makurdi is the only tertiary health institution in Benue State. Maternal deaths are a frequent occurrence in the centre thereby necessitating this study.

Objective: To determine the maternal mortality ratio, the case fatality rate and the contribution of direct obstetric complications to these deaths.

Subjects and Methods: A four – month descriptive study of obstetric service data from 1st January to 30th April 2004.

Results: During the study period, there were a total of 363 deliveries (52% unbooked,48% booked,20% DOC.) and 16 maternal deaths(94% were direct) giving a maternal mortality ratio of 4,408 / 100,000 deliveries.14 (87.5%)of the deaths were unbooked obstetric emergencies.  The overall case fatality rate (CFR) was 21%. The contribution of each direct obstetric complication to the direct maternal deaths was as follows: obstructed labour/ Ruptured uterus (53.3 %), postpartum haemorrhage (13.35%), puerperal sepsis (13.35 %), Eclampsia (6. 68 %), induced Abortion (6.68 %). The cause- specific CFR was in this order. Ruptured uterus 100%, Puerperal sepsis 100%, Abortion 25%, Severe Pre-eclampsia/Eclampsia 20%, Obstetric haemorrhage 12.5%, Obstructed labour 11.4%. The caesarean section rate was 15 %. Facilities to provide life saving functions were lacking and staff commitment was low.

Conclusion: Quality improvement and institutional capacity building for effective emergency obstetric care is urgently recommended to prevent these deaths.

Keywords: Emergency obstetric indices, Federal Medical Centre Makurdi, Nigeria.

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Corresponding Author

Dr Ochejele Silas, BM BCH, FWACS

Consultant, Obstetrician/Gynaecologist, Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi