Various Health Care Providers’ Knowledge of the Partogram Use during Childbirth, at the Bamenda Health District, Cameroon

Abstract

In a state of affairs where the provision of care to the child birth process is not purely in the hands of educated and trained midwives, the competency in knowledge and application of midwifery tools may be inadequate and consequently affect the quality of care. One of these tools is the partogram which is an inexpensive tool that can provide a continuous pictorial overview of labour and is essential to monitor and manage labour. The success of its use requires good knowledge and skills gained through formal education and regular in-service training. Furthermore, the partogram requires technical knowhow to carry out the observations and documentations. The lack of knowledge in its use leads to poor monitoring of labour where problems may be identified late, resulting in complications which may cause maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. This study assessed the existing knowledge and relationship between trained and untrained birth attendants (BAs) regarding the use of the partogram in nine public health facilities in Mezam Division, North West Region, Cameroon. A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted using three tools - self-administered questionnaire, record review and an interview guide. Major findings indicated a good level of knowledge (61.8%). Statistical relationships were found between professional level and knowledge on the use of the partogram, and knowledge and training on the use of the tool.