Factors Associated with Postpartum Care during the Fourth Stage of Labor in Nepal: A Hospital-based Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Postnatal care is an important part of maternal and neonatal care, and life-threatening complications can occur during the postpartum period. Empirical information on the level of postpartum care services is generally scarce in Nepal. Key elements of postpartum care during the fourth stage of labor include providing proper nutrition, promoting breastfeeding, and helping the mother manage any physical discomforts or challenges that may arise. This study investigated the level of postpartum care services delivered during the fourth stage of labor in a tertiary-level hospital in the Chitwan district of Nepal. A descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based study was conducted among 148 women admitted for vaginal delivery. A set of structured observation checklists was developed and finalized based on the WHO Recommended Interventions for Improving Maternal and Newborn Health: Integrated Management of Pregnancy and Childbirth. The structured observation checklist had twenty-two items, including twelve critical steps. A good level of care was valid with a score of ≥ 90% based on total items, including all twelve critical steps of care, and a poor level of care was valid with a score <90%. The purpose of the study was explained to and written informed consent was obtained from all respondents. Ethical approval was received from the Institutional Review Committee of Chitwan Medical College. One third (33.8%) of the women received a good level of postpartum care services. Women’s residence (p = .021), number of pregnancies (p =.002), and number of antenatal visits (p =.029) were significantly associated with the level of postpartum care during the fourth stage of labor. Going forward, it will be important for Nepal to enhance the capacity of clinicians or nurses to provide postpartum care as per WHO guidelines.