Maternal Mortality Rate Linked To Failures In Nurses’ Training

Many people may be surprised to learn that the mortality rate for women who give birth is higher in the U.S. than in any other affluent country in the world. There are many reasons for that, including, one could argue, a serious inequality in the care that women of different economic statuses receive. Maternal mortality rates, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, are highest among women who live in rural areas and those who are African-American.

Some 700 to 900 women lose their lives every year in this country during pregnancy or childbirth. Sadly, more than half of these deaths are preventable.

One reason, according to a study just published in MCN: The American Journal of Maternal/Child Nursing, is that postpartum nurses are not properly educated in the potential dangers to new mothers. Therefore, they’re not able to recognize what should be alarming symptoms or to tell their patients what symptoms are potentially dangerous.

These include headaches, breathing problems, heavy bleeding and painful swelling. While no woman feels physically comfortable just after giving birth, these symptoms can be indications of potentially serious and even fatal issues.

A survey of nurses found that on average they only spend about 10 minutes, if that, talking to new mothers about potentially dangerous symptoms. The survey also found that few nurses realized that heart failure accounted for over 25 percent of postpartum deaths.

Women are at least under medical supervision while they’re in the hospital. However, in the U.S., the average hospital stay for a new mother is just two days. Once they go home, they’re likely consumed with caring for their new child and paying less attention to their own health. If they don’t know what symptoms to be concerned about, they may not notify their doctors.

Numerous complications can occur before, during and after giving birth that can cause harm and even death to women. However, as noted, too often, this is preventable. If you believe that you or a loved one was not properly cared for by medical professionals during this crucial time, it’s wise to consult with a New Mexico personal injury attorney to find out what your legal options are.

 

Source: National Public Radio, “Many Nurses Lack Knowledge Of Health Risks To Mothers After Childbirth,” Nina Martin, ProPublica, accessed Sep. 14, 2017