Original Research

Midwives’ experiences regarding recordkeeping during intrapartum care in Limpopo Province healthcare facilities

Phogole C. Maesela, Johanna M. Mathibe-Neke
Curationis | Vol 47, No 1 | a2594 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.4102/curationis.v47i1.2594 | © 2024 Phogole C. Maesela, Johanna M. Mathibe-Neke | This work is licensed under CC Attribution 4.0
Submitted: 28 February 2024 | Published: 25 October 2024

About the author(s)

Phogole C. Maesela, Department of Health Studies, School of Social Sciences, College of Human Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
Johanna M. Mathibe-Neke, Department of Health Studies, School of Social Sciences, College of Human Sciences, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa

Abstract

Background: South Africa has experienced an increase in litigations because of poor recordkeeping. The quality of maternal healthcare necessitates quality recordkeeping. All midwives’ interventions should be documented in the maternity case record as an instrument to highlight the quality of intrapartum care offered.

Objectives: The purpose of the study was to determine and describe the experiences of midwives regarding recordkeeping during intrapartum care in Limpopo province and to make recommendations to improve recordkeeping.

Method: A qualitative, explorative and descriptive design was adopted. Midwives were selected purposively to participate in focus group discussions. Data were thematically analysed with the help of the independent transcriptionist and coder.

Results: The findings revealed the themes: perceptions of midwives regarding recordkeeping and the challenges and enablers that influence recordkeeping during intrapartum care.

Conclusion: Quality recordkeeping requires timely, detailed, comprehensive and accurate recording. The study recommended the availability of updated guidelines, in-service training, monitoring and evaluation of recordkeeping, peer review, record auditing, proper time management among midwives and appointment of staff in line with the staffing needs of the unit to enhance recordkeeping.

Contribution: Quality recordkeeping has a positive impact on the provision of quality healthcare to mothers during intrapartum care and reduces litigations related to maternity cases.


Keywords

experience; intrapartum care; midwife; quality; recordkeeping.

Sustainable Development Goal

Goal 3: Good health and well-being

Metrics

Total abstract views: 358
Total article views: 170


Crossref Citations

No related citations found.