Obstetric hemorrhage refers to excessive bleeding that occurs during or after childbirth. This serious complication can result in maternal morbidity and mortality.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a significant cause of maternal mortality worldwide. PPH results in approximately 70,000 annual maternal deaths among the estimated 14 million women who experience it.
Several factors can cause obstetric hemorrhage, including:
- Uterine atony (failure of the uterus to contract after childbirth).
- Birth canal or uterus trauma.
- Placental abnormalities.
- Coagulation disorders.
It is crucial to promptly identify and manage obstetric hemorrhage to prevent serious complications, improve maternal outcomes and reduce costs for both the patient and the physician.
How can evidence-based treatments for obstetric hemorrhage improve patient outcomes and reduce costs?
Implementing evidence-based treatments for obstetric hemorrhage can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs.
A recent study by Stanford Medicine and the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative found that measures used at California hospitals to stop excessive bleeding in childbirth save an average of almost $18 per birth. This means annual healthcare savings of $9 million statewide.
Also, regarding cost reduction, early recognition and management of bleeding can prevent the need for more costly interventions. These interventions include blood transfusions, surgery, or admission to the intensive care unit (ICU).
The use of uterotonics and tranexamic acid can help reduce the amount of bleeding, thereby reducing the need for blood products, which are expensive and can carry risks. Uterine balloon tamponade can be an effective intervention to control bleeding and avoid more invasive procedures.
Therefore, by implementing these evidence-based treatments, healthcare providers can reduce maternal morbidity and mortality incidences, thus reducing healthcare costs over time.
In addition, these treatments can help standardize care and ensure that all patients receive the same level of care, regardless of their provider or location. This can lead to improved patient satisfaction and better patient outcomes.
Evidence-based Treatments for Obstetric Hemorrhage
One primary evidence-based treatment for obstetric hemorrhage is tranexamic acid (TXA). This treatment can reduce maternal mortality by up to 31%.
In addition to the use of TXA and early recognition and management of bleeding, other evidence-based treatments for obstetric hemorrhage include:
- Uterotonics: These medications help the uterus contract and reduce bleeding. Using uterotonics such as oxytocin, misoprostol, and carboprost can significantly reduce the need for blood transfusions and other interventions.
- Uterine balloon tamponade: This involves placing a balloon in the uterus to put pressure on the bleeding site and stop the bleeding. Uterine balloon tamponade can be a lifesaving intervention in cases of severe hemorrhage.
- Embolization: In this procedure, small particles are injected into the blood vessels supplying the uterus in order to block blood flow and stop the bleeding.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to stop the bleeding. This may involve procedures such as a hysterectomy or uterine artery ligation.
By utilizing these evidence-based treatments, healthcare providers can effectively manage obstetric hemorrhage and improve patient outcomes. It is crucial to be aware of these interventions and to have protocols in place for their use in emergencies.
Finally, by staying current on the latest research and guidelines, healthcare providers can continuously improve their practice and provide the best possible care for their patients.
At Health Prime, we can help!
Obstetrics and Gynecology practices have unique needs, requirements, and priorities, particularly coding and billing. With over 30 years of experience working closely with Ob-Gyn practices, we deeply understand how to leverage technology and software to optimize the clinical, financial, operational, and patient workflow of Ob-Gyn groups.
Health Prime’s Ob-Gyn EHR Software and specialized Revenue Cycle Management services allow us to help you implement, train, and support medical and EHR software and technology.
Learn more about optimizing your ob-gyn practice to improve patient care, reduce costs and maximize revenue collection. You can reach us at [email protected]. Our team will set up a meeting to discuss how Health Prime can help you achieve your practice goals.
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