Skilled Birth Attendants’ Factors and Management of Postpartum Hemorrhage in Level Four and Five Hospitals in Lamu County

Abstract

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is considered a significant contributor to elevated rates of maternal death. Subsequently, it stands at 4% in Kenya. PPH is also the most common complication of third stage of labor. However, with skilled workforce, adherence to recommendations, PPH can be managed in hospitals. The study sought to investigate skilled birth attendants’ factors on the management of PPH in level 4 and 5 hospitals in Lamu County. The study employed descriptive cross-sectional survey research design. The target population for this study included all doctors, clinical officers, nurses and midwives in level 4 and 5 public hospitals in Lamu County. Census method was employed to obtain the 64 respondents in this study.  The study employed questionnaires. The initial section focused on gathering demographic information to outline the characteristics of the sample. The subsequent section was designed to collect data related to the study variables, which were instrumental in elaborating the study components and addressing the research questions. Prior to the main data collection, the instruments were pretested in Mombasa County to improve their validity and reliability. Data was organized and entered into SPSS version 25 to create a data file. Subsequently, the researcher screened and cleaned the data to identify and correct any errors, and a preliminary analysis was conducted to check for violations of the assumptions underlying the statistical techniques used. Findings were presented using tables. The results revealed a significant positive influence of skilled birth attendants' factors on PPH management in level 4 and 5 hospitals in Lamu County (r=0.762**, n=41, P<0.05). The study concluded that skilled birth attendant factors: teamwork, knowledge and competency—significantly influence PPH management in Lamu County. It recommended regular training for skilled birth attendants to enhance knowledge and competency. Additionally, healthcare institutions should promote teamwork through inter-professional workshops, ensuring better PPH outcomes.