EMERGING NEED OF OBSTERIC CRITICAL CARE UNIT FOR BETTER MATERNAL OUTCOME –PERSPECTIVE OF OBSTETRICIANS

Authors

Dr Afroz Sultana, Dr Varada A Hasamnis, Dr K Sai Anusha, Dr G Sravani Author

Keywords:

Obstetric critical care unit (OCCU),Maternal outcome, Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, Postpartum Hemorrhage, Resource allocation in obstetrics, Obstetric Emergency Management, Standardized Obstetric protocols, Maternal Mortality reduction ,High risk pregnancy care, Multidisciplinary approach in maternal care

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy, while a normal physiological state that may lead to pathological states due to the unique maternal-fetal interface and associated stressors. Critical illnesses during pregnancy arise from preexisting conditions, coincidental diseases, or pregnancy- specific complications. The increasing prevalence of severe maternal morbidities, coupled with conditions like hypertensive disorders and postpartum hemorrhage, underscores the urgent need for obstetric critical care units (CCUs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: It is an cross sectional study employed an questionnaire-based design involving 200 obstetricians from government hospitals, corporate units, and nursing homes. The questionnaire, comprising 25 items, explored their experiences with obstetric critical care. Additionally, a review of literature and analysis of data from CCUs was conducted to evaluate trends, resource allocation, and protocol efficacy. Simulation-based training methods were utilized to enhance emergency response preparedness.

RESULT: In India 3-8% of parturients require CCU admission ,with two-thirds being unanticipated Findings highlighted resource gaps, inadequate staff training and inconsistent protocols as major barriers to effective care delivery.

CONCLUSION: The study highlights the need for optimized resource allocation, evidence based policies and enhanced training programs .Standardized guidelines and multidisciplinary approaches are essential for achieving better health outcomes.