Non-Pneumatic Anti-Shock Garment (NASG) Use in Postpartum Hemorrhage Control: A Midwifery Practice Assessment in Ogun State, Nigeria

Abstract

Background:
Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) remains the leading cause of maternal mortality globally, accounting for approximately 25% of all maternal deaths. The NonPneumatic AntiShock Garment (NASG) is a firstaid lowerbody pressure device that reverses hypovolemic shock and decreases obstetric hemorrhage, thereby reducing maternal morbidity and mortality.
Objective:
This study assessed the knowledge, perception, attitude, and utilization of NASG in the management of postpartum hemorrhage among midwives in selected healthcare facilities in Ogun State, Nigeria.
Methods:
A descriptive crosssectional research design was employed using a structured questionnaire for data collection from 173 midwives in two tertiary hospitals: Babcock University Teaching Hospital and Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Ogun State. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and Pearson Product Moment Correlation was used to test hypotheses at 5% level of significance.
Results:
The findings revealed that midwives had moderate knowledge (mean score = 6.609, 50.8%) on NASG utilization in PPH management. Their perception towards NASG utilization was average (54.3%), while their attitude was fair (mean = 2.21 on a 4point scale). An inverse significant association was found between knowledge and utilization of NASG (r = 0.612, p = 0.000). Major barriers to utilization included nonavailability (73.4%), inadequacy of NASG (76.9%), and infection risk concerns (67.6%).
Conclusion:
Despite moderate knowledge among midwives, NASG utilization remains suboptimal due to availability challenges and infrastructural constraints. Continuous education, periodic training, and ensuring adequate supply of NASG in healthcare facilities are essential to maximize its lifesaving potential.