Clinical Audit-Uptake of Flu Vaccine among pregnant and postnatal women

Aziz B,Tariq S,Abirmani S,Nhambasora F,Janjua N,Johnson S,Imcha M

Obstetrics and gynaecology,University Maternity Hospital,Limerick ,Ireland

 Introduction

Many infectious illnesses are caused by the influenza virus. Flu can cause serious illnesses and can be life threatening for pregnant women. Complications of flu include pneumonia ,bronchitis and on rare occasions, encephalitis. Flu infection during pregnancy increases the risk of miscarriage, premature birth and even stillbirth.

Objectives

 To assess the uptake of the flu vaccine in pregnant and postpartum women at University Maternity Hospital, Limerick during January 2023.

To come up with ways to promote vaccine uptake.

Results

This audit was conducted by surveying 105 participants, consisting of 22 postnatal women and 83 pregnant women. This study was conducted over a one month period (January 2023). Figure 1: shows that 51% of the participants received the flu vaccine, 18% of the participants intended to get the vaccine, while 30% declined the vaccine. Figure 2:The results also showed that 91% of the participants were aware that the flu vaccine was recommended during pregnancy and that 79% were aware of the side effects of the vaccine. However, only 62% were aware of the complications of flu infection during pregnancy and only 65% believed the vaccine to be safe during pregnancy.

Conclusion

The results of this audit suggest that there is room for improvement.

The proposed quality improvement plan, which includes the involvement of healthcare providers to increase awareness and encourage vaccination.

Use of social media e.g. Facebook, twitter for flu vaccine promotion campaign

Provision of Flu vaccine within hospital premises for indoor and outdoor patients as currently only available at GP service.