Evidence-based obstetric care in South Africa - influencing practice through the 'Better Births Initiative'

Smith, Helen ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6252-3793, Brown, H., Hofmeyr, G. J. and Garner, Paul ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0607-6941 (2004) 'Evidence-based obstetric care in South Africa - influencing practice through the 'Better Births Initiative''. Samj South African Medical Journal, Vol 94, Issue 2, pp. 117-120.

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Abstract

Ensuring that health professionals practise according to evidence-based standards is important since it affects the quality and cost of care patients receive. The purpose of this research was to use a focused change programme (the Better Births Initiative) to influence obstetric practice at 10 hospitals in Gauteng, South Africa. The findings show some important improvements in practice following the implementation of the BBI; providers at some sites reduced the use of enemas, shaving and episiotomy, and increased use of oral fluids and companionship during labour. Qualitative data suggest that an interactive approach to implementing evidence-based practice can influence health professionals' decisions to change practice, and that good working relationships and enthusiastic staff are central to effective change.

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	episiotomy quality
Subjects:	WA Public Health > Health Problems of Special Population Groups > WA 310 Maternal welfare WQ Obstetrics > Childbirth. Prenatal Care > WQ 160 Midwifery WQ Obstetrics > WQ 20 Research (General) WQ Obstetrics > Obstetric Surgical Procedures > WQ 415 Delivery (including preparatory manipulation)
Faculty: Department:	Groups (2002 - 2012) > International Health Group
Depositing User:	Martin Chapman
Date Deposited:	05 Sep 2012 09:26
Last Modified:	06 Sep 2019 10:14
URI:	https://archive.lstmed.ac.uk/id/eprint/2221

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