Knowledge and Utilization of the Modified WHO Partograph by Midwives at Ga South Government Health Facilities in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

Abstract

Background: A partograph is a simple graphical and pictorial obstetric tool used by skilled birth attendants to detect abnormal labor as early as possible for a good pregnancy outcome (healthy mother and live baby). It is a universally accepted tool which has been endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to be used as a safe motherhood initiative for the reduction of maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity in the developing world. We sought to assess the level of knowledge and utilization of the Modified WHO partograph by midwives in the Ga South Municipal government health facilities in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana. Methods: The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study design engaging eight government health facilities. A structured questionnaire with both open-ended and closed-ended questions was used. The survey was conducted within the period from February to March 2019. All gathered data was exported from Excel into STATA statistical software package (StataCorp.2007. Stata Statistical Software. Release 14. Stata Corp LP, College Station, TX, USA). The analysis included descriptive as well as analytical findings using Chi-square test and assumed a statistical significance of p<0.05. Results: A total of 110 midwives were involved. The results revealed that most midwives 105(95.5%) could describe the WHO partograph properly and again, majority102 (92.7%) routinely used the partograph for monitoring of expectant women in labor. Almost half of the participants worked at the health centers and most received regular supply of the partograph charts. Among the challenges faced by participants was the shortage of midwives 60 (54.5%). There was one significant association between midwives use of the modified WHO partograph and their knowledge on the GHS policies (p< 0.045). Conclusion: Midwives exhibited a high level of knowledge on the use of the Modified WHO partograph and a majority used it routinely. The number of midwives per shift could hinder the proper utilization of the partograph.