Leveraging a criteria-based audit approach to identify challenges and develop strategies to improve management of postpartum hemorrhage: A case study from the Dominican Republic

Objective

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide. This case study aims to assess current PPH at our study site hospital, identify strategies to enhance management based on audit findings, and pilot test the feasibility and acceptability of these strategies.

Methods

A criteria-based audit (CBA) was conducted at La Maternidad Renee Klang Viuda Guzman Hospital in Santiago, Dominican Republic from November 2021 to September 2022. The audit assessed current practice through surveys of 59 healthcare workers and a retrospective review of 10 PPH cases, using eight evidence-based criteria. Audit findings informed the development of a PPH toolkit, protocol, and simulation-based training program (SBT). The toolkit's impact was evaluated through surveys, and SBT effectiveness was assess through post-training feedback from participants.

Results

The baseline audit revealed 25% compliance with evidence-based criteria. Key gaps included maternal risk assessment, provider training, and protocol use. Targeted strategies, including a PPH toolkit, protocol and SBT, were implemented. Of the 13 toolkit users, 92% felt it improved timely management. Post-SBT surveys showed that participants rated the training highly, with significant improvements in communication, teamwork, and self-reported competence in PPH management.

Conclusion

CBAs are effective in identifying care barriers in middle-income settings. The PPH toolkit and SBT were well received and improved both technical and non-technical skills, offering a scalable model for improving PPH management in low-resource settings.