Healthcare providers’ perspectives on obstetric emergency preparedness at Vijibweni Hospital in Kigamboni Municipal, Tanzania

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: While the government has launched an initiative to upgrade health facilities and train providers in obstetric emergency services, some gaps still exist in providing the much-needed instruments and materials to complete the service. These deficiencies have contributed to delays in detection that result in maternal morbidity and mortality. Very few studies have focused on the knowledge of health providers regarding obstetric emergency preparedness. Objective: The study aimed to identify perspectives from health providers concerning obstetric emergency preparedness at Vijibweni Hospital. Materials and Methods: Data were collected through a descriptive qualitative design from in-depth interviews with healthcare providers at Vijibweni Hospital, including nurse-midwives, doctors, laboratory technologists, and pharmacists. A Kiswahili semi-structured interview guide assisted the collection of data, while content analysis was applied to the data. Results: The study involve 16 key informants, among all Fourteen out of sixteen healthcare providers interviewed at Vijibweni Hospital in Dar es Salaam were women. Their educational backgrounds were primarily diplomas and bachelor's degrees with various cadres, such as nurse-midwives, medical officers, lab technologists, and pharmacists. Five categories emerged, such as perceived consequences and benefits, continuous education and training, availability of supportive systems with limited infrastructure and material resources, and a healthcare workforce prepared for an obstetric emergency. Conclusion: Poor infrastructure, lack of supplies, and appropriate referral mechanisms along with shortages of health staff adversely influence preparedness on obstetric emergencies. Continuous education and strong support systems on the other hand improve patient outcomes increase safety, and boost hospital's reputation.