Optimizing antepartum admission care: Assessing the influence of QR code-based patient education on postpartum contraception rates

Introduction

With the uncertain landscape of abortion laws across the United States, the importance of postpartum contraception has increased, particularly for women experiencing high-risk pregnancies requiring antepartum hospitalization. Conversations about contraception are often overshadowed by the myriad of other discussions related to high-risk pregnancies. This is especially significant for birthing persons of color, given the history of systemic racism and coercion related to permanent sterilization. This quality improvement project aimed to address these issues by implementing a novel approach using technology to facilitate patient education and discussion about contraception.

Methods

A standardized quick response (QR) code (Denso Wave Inc, Kariya, Japan) was placed in patient rooms, linking to a comprehensive website detailing birth control options, safety profiles, and side effects for each method. Our objective was to increase the establishment of postpartum contraception plans upon discharge.

Results

The project analyzed pregnancies admitted to our institution's antepartum unit, who delivered during the same admission, over 2 periods: 1 year before (n = 72) and 1 year after (n = 98) QR code implementation. Post-implementation, the proportion of patients establishing a birth control plan increased significantly (71.4 % vs. 50 %, p = 0.006). Of note, neither postpartum sterilization (11.1 % to 16.3 %; p = 0.379) or post-placental intrauterine device placement (1.4 % to 4.1 %; p = 0.397) increased. More Black patients chose permanent contraception after QR education implementation (p = 0.016).

Conclusion

This quality improvement project showed significant improvements in addressing contraception methods and highlights the potential of leveraging technology to enhance patient education and empowerment, particularly in high-risk pregnancy settings. This novel proof-of-concept underscores the importance of innovative approaches to address healthcare gaps.