Abstract

The use of a Safe Childbirth Checklist is a vital tool endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO) to ensure comprehensive care during childbirth, reducing maternal and neonatal complications. Student midwives play a crucial role in maternal health, and their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the checklist can significantly impact safe delivery practices. This study assesses the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of student midwives at the Buea Regional Hospital regarding the use of the Safe Childbirth Checklist, aiming to identify gaps and areas for improvement in their training.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 100 student midwives from the Buea Regional Hospital using structured questionnaires to evaluate their understanding of the checklist’s contents, their attitude toward its utility, and their adherence to its use in clinical practice. Data analysis focused on demographic factors, levels of exposure to training on the checklist, and how these influenced their knowledge, attitudes, and practices.

Results showed that 60% of student midwives demonstrated good knowledge of the Safe Childbirth Checklist, primarily influenced by their level of clinical experience and exposure to structured training programs. However, 40% of the respondents displayed limited understanding of specific items on the checklist, such as protocols for monitoring vital signs and steps for immediate newborn care. Positive attitudes towards the checklist were reported by 80% of participants, who recognized its potential to enhance safety during childbirth. Yet, a subset of participants expressed concerns about the time constraints and challenges of integrating the checklist into fast-paced clinical environments.

In practice, only 50% of student midwives consistently applied the checklist during childbirth, with inconsistent use attributed to time pressures, lack of adequate mentorship, and limited reinforcement of the checklist’s importance by senior staff. Additionally, over 70% of participants suggested that practical training and continuous supervision would improve their adherence to checklist protocols.

The study highlights the need for enhanced training on the Safe Childbirth Checklist within the curriculum for student midwives, coupled with supportive clinical environments that reinforce checklist use. Integrating routine workshops, simulation exercises, and mentorship programs may foster improved knowledge, positive attitudes, and reliable practice in safe childbirth procedures, contributing to improved maternal and neonatal health outcomes at the Buea Regional Hospital.

Keywords: Safe Childbirth Checklist, student midwives, maternal health, knowledge, attitudes, practice, Buea Regional Hospital, clinical training.