The midwives’ experiences of the use of obstetric triage and obstetric triage tool during labour in Bojanala district

Abstract

Background: Obstetric triage (OBT) is a standardised procedure, which plays a vital role in identifying women with obstetric risks upon admission for labour worldwide. In the last few years, considerable attention has been paid to perinatal problem identification programmes, and it has been determined that the inconsistent use of OBT delays midwives’ responses to both existing and potential clinical problems amongst women in labour. This delay results in negative and serious perinatal outcomes that could have been prevented. This study was conducted to explore and describe midwives’ experiences with OBT in Bojanala district.Aim: This study aimed to explore and describe midwives’ experiences with OBT in Bojanala district.Setting: This study was conducted in Bojanala district of the North West Province. Two public healthcare facilities were selected where midwifery care and OBT services are rendered.Methods: A qualitative, descriptive, explorative research design was followed. Nine purposefully sampled midwives participated in a one-on-one in-depth interview. Data were analysed using Collaizi’s descriptive method based on the themes and categories that emerged.Results: Three themes emerged. Midwives experienced the OBT tool to be inadequate; and that the low staff number contributes to an imbalance in the midwife–patient ratio. Midwives were also dissatisfied with less support they receive from their management.Conclusion: The study highlighted midwives’ experiences of the use of OBT, as presented through their lived experiences. The midwives experienced challenges, which hindered them from practicing OBT to the best of their abilities.Contribution: The study highlighted challenges experienced by midwives regarding OBT, which directly influence the outcomes of pregnancy and labour.