Study of maternal outcome in referral obstetric cases in a tertiary care centre

To identify the pattern of Obstetric referral to our hospital and the primary reasons for referral, so as to implement measures to reduce unnecessary referrals and to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity.

All the referred cases for obstetrics indications above 20 weeks were analysed for cause of referral, their condition and outcome for a period of 6 months from January 2016 to June 2016.

According to our study out of a total of 10172 delivered patients, 1014 (9.96%) cases were referred patients. Maximum cases i.e. 713 (70. 3%) were in the age group of 21-30. Most of the cases 678 (66.86%) did not receive any treatment at referral hospital before being referred. Only 27.52% patients were referred with referral slips/chit etc., having adequate information and 40.24% of cases were delayed referrals. 183 (18.04%) patients required intensive care unit admission.

The present study showed that illiteracy and ignorance of female regarding healthcare requirements and poor infrastructure came out to be a major contributor of poor pregnancy outcome. Timely referral is crucial for a satisfactory maternal and fetal outcome. To reduce the number of unnecessary referrals and to reduce burden on tertiary care hospitals, health care workers should be trained in essential and emergency obstetric care which will help in reducing morbidity and mortality.