Evaluation of the NHS R & D implementation methods programme

Abstract

No. 2: UPTAKE OF EFFECTIVE PRACTICES IN MATERNITY UNITS Lead Researcher: Dr Jenny Hewison University of Leeds Project Summary: This is a national study of changes in adherence to four obstetric care standards over time, conducted in 20 hospitals selected at random. It has two objectives, to estimate adherence to standards which are strongly supported by evidence from a well publicised database of systematic reviews (the Cochrane Database and its electronic and published precursors); and to relate this quality measurement to the knowledge and attitudes of clinicians, and to the rigour of the procedures established for implementing change. The standards are: use of 1) prophylactic antibiotics for Caesarian Section, 2) steroids when pre-term delivery can be anticipated, 3) the ventouse for instrumental delivery, 4) suture material used to repair episiotomy, and 5) the management of eclampsia. Current levels of adherence will be placed in the context of past performance. The results will determine the scope for further improvement and indicate topics for intervention studies. ARTICLE: THE LEEDS UNIVERSITY MATERNITY AUDIT PROJECT B Wilson, J G Thornton, J Hewison, R J Lilford, I Watt, D Braunholtz, M Robinson International Journal for Quality in Health Care, 14: 175-181 (2002) Abstract: