Quality improvement work on postnatal contraception in NHS Fife Maternity in 2019-21

Dr Carolyn Ford, consultant O&G; Ms A Nicol, education midwife; Ms K Smith, charge midwife;

Mrs L David, maternity ward sister, NHS Fife Maternity

Background: Postnatal contraception is a key component of the Scottish Women’s Health Plan for improving maternal health.

We used a variety of QI approaches to improve uptake of postnatal contraception from the NHS Fife Maternity ward.

Methods: We carried out unit data review, a scoping questionnaire with patients, interviews with staff leading to process mapping and empathy mapping, multiple PDSAs and service evaluation.

Changes: staff were given training and “quick check” guides; patients had extra conversations and more information; videos and posters were used to raise awareness and there were grab boxes for LARC.

Results: Staff increased knowledge and skills. Number of discussions on PNC increased to 90% and proportion of patients receiving PNC before discharge was up to 56%.

Conclusions: QI methods helped us to undertake change in a healthcare setting. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methods enabled us to design person-centred processes and improve outcomes.