The Guadeloupean perinatal mortality audit: process, results, and implications
De Caunes, F.; Alexander, G.R.; Berchel, C.; Guengant, J.P.; Papiernik, E.
American Journal of Preventive Medicine 6(6): 339-345
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0749-3797 PMID: 2076302 DOI: 10.1016/s0749-3797(18)30980-2Document Number: 375435
In 1983, the authors implemented an ongoing perinatal mortality audit in Guadeloupe to identify factors underlying the current level of poor perinatal outcome and to stimulate increased provider motivation. The audit was part of an active research approach to document the specific nature of the perceived perinatal health problem, to modify provider behavior through the use of this acquired information, and, ultimately, to decrease avoidable perinatal deaths. The authors investigated all 320 perinatal deaths in Guadeloupe during 1984-85. Nearly 1/2 of all perinatal deaths reviewed were determined to be related to maternal high blood pressure, maternal/fetal infection, and preterm delivery. Slightly more than 1/2 of the perinatal mortality rates exhibited a marked decline. The findings of this study support claims that perinatal audits with confidential inquiries may help effect change in perinatal health status in a population; the findings also call attention to the potential benefits of incorporating motivational incentives into these activities.