Practices for predicting and preventing preterm birth in Ireland: a national survey.
BACKGROUND
Preterm birth can result in adverse outcomes for the neonate and/or his/her family. The accurate prediction and prevention of preterm birth is paramount. This study describes and critically analyses practices for predicting and preventing preterm birth in Ireland.


METHODS
A questionnaire seeking information on practices for predicting and preventing preterm birth was mailed to all consultant obstetricians practising in Ireland in February 2006.


RESULTS
For predicting preterm birth, 97% of respondents did not use foetal fibronectin testing, 71% carried out routine second and third trimester cervical assessments and 75% routinely screened for genital tract infection. For preventing preterm birth, 62% prescribed bed rest, 24% prescribed antibiotics, 14% routinely inserted a cervical cerclage in women with a history of mid-trimester miscarriage and 61% routinely used tocolytics.


CONCLUSIONS
The findings of this survey, for the most part, reflect the empirical evidence base, international practices and best practice recommendations.
School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, The University of Dublin, 24 D'Olier Street, Dublin 2, Ireland. vasmith@tcd.ie
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Devane
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Higgins
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001510:Bed Rest; D023802:Cerclage, Cervical; D005260:Female; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006801:Humans; D007494:Ireland; D009774:Obstetrics; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D011247:Pregnancy; D047928:Premature Birth / Q000517:prevention & control*; D015149:Tocolytic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D015149:Tocolytic Agents