Abstract:

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) remains a leading cause of maternal mortality, especially in low-resource settings. The non-pneumatic antishock garment (NASG) has been recognized as an effective intervention for stabilizing women experiencing obstetric hemorrhage. However, its utilization remains suboptimal due to inadequate training among midwives. This study assesses the effect of an educational intervention on NASG application skills among midwives in Ilorin-West, Kwara State, Nigeria. A quasi-experimental, pre- and post-intervention study was conducted among 53 midwives working in primary healthcare centres. A structured training package was developed, including lectures, hands-on demonstrations, and simulations. Baseline knowledge and skills were assessed using structured questionnaires and direct observation checklists. The intervention was implemented over four weeks, and post-intervention assessments were conducted to evaluate improvements. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with paired t-tests used to measure statistical significance. Pre-intervention assessments showed a limited understanding of NASG application and removal, with only 18.9% of participants correctly identifying the order of segment application. Post-intervention, knowledge and skill levels significantly improved (p<0.01), with 90.6% demonstrating correct application. Major barriers identified included limited availability of NASG, lack of refresher training, and inadequate institutional support. The educational intervention significantly enhanced midwives' competency in NASG application, emphasizing the need for continuous training and policy-driven adoption in maternity care settings. Scaling up this intervention may contribute to reducing maternal mortality due to PPH in Nigeria and similar resource-limited settings.

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