Challenges of Utilization of Emergency Obstetric care as Experienced by Midwives in Selected Secondary Health Facilities in Oyo State, Nigeria: A Qualitative Approach

Abstract

Background: The use of Emergency obstetric care is essential in reducing maternal mortality, especially in developing countries where maternal mortality is low.There are high unmet needs for Emergency obstetric care.One of the reasons may be due to challenges faced by healthcare workers.Objectives: The objective of the study was to explores the challenges of the utilization of emergency obstetric care as experienced by midwives in selected secondary health facilities in Oyo State, Nigeria.Methods: The study utilized a qualitative research design using a self-developed interview guide to elicit responses from twenty-two participants from eleven secondary health facilities.Results: Two themes emerged from the findings of the study which are organizational and Patients factors.Five subthemes were generated from the organizational factors which include non-availability of training on emergency obstetric care, inadequate equipment, staff shortage, non-availability of drugs, and inadequate basic amenities.Three themes emerged from the patients' factors which include financial constraints, religious belief, and uncooperative attitude.Conclusion: It is therefore recommended that there should be periodic training should be organized on Emergency Obstetric Care, there should be the provision of equipment, and drugs needed for managing obstetrics emergencies on the ward and there should be the recruitment of staff.Modalities should be put in place to educate pregnant women on the need to comply with the use of emergency obstetric care and religious leaders should be educated on Emergency obstetric care and encourage pregnant women to utilize emergency obstetric care when there is a need for it.