Obstetric infection control in a developing country.
In Ghana, infection has been identified as a major cause of birth-related mortality. Results of a 2-month observation of infection control practices among Ghanaian obstetric nurses and midwives indicated that most personnel did not practice basic rules of asepsis. Problems included frequent breaks in technique, inadequate sterilization and disinfection, and repeated exposure to large amounts of blood and vaginal secretions. Supplies were limited and, even when available, not always used appropriately. The situation in developing countries is different from that in the United States. Therefore, an observational needs assessment is essential to plan relevant and practical measures for change.
Cronin
W A
WA
Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, MD 21287.
Quansah
M G
MG
Larson
E
E
D002585:Cesarean Section; D036861:Delivery, Obstetric; D003906:Developing Countries; D004203:Disinfection / Q000592:standards; D005260:Female; D005869:Ghana / Q000453:epidemiology; D006235:Hand Disinfection / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D017053:Infection Control / Q000592:standards*; D007846:Laundering / Q000592:standards; D008428:Maternal Mortality; D008506:Medical Waste; D009721:Nurse Midwives / Q000592:standards*; D015403:Nursing Evaluation Research; D009773:Obstetric Nursing / Q000592:standards*; D012037:Refuse Disposal / Q000592:standards; D012424:Rural Population; D016635:Universal Precautions
D008506:Medical Waste