Implementation of a modified obstetric early warning system to improve the quality of obstetric care in Zimbabwe.

Objective: To implement a modified obstetric early warning system (MOEWS) to promote identification and stabilization of unwell women.

Methods: A before-and-after study of MOEWS implementation took place between April 2013 and January 2014 in a government referral hospital in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. After piloting MOEWS, cesarean case files were retrospectively assessed to compare preoperative stabilization.

Onsite training of doctors, midwives and nurses in obstetric emergencies, Zimbabwe.

Problem: In Zimbabwe, many health facilities are not able to manage serious obstetric complications. Staff most commonly identified inadequate training as the greatest barrier to preventing avoidable maternal deaths.

Approach: We established an onsite obstetric emergencies training programme for maternity staff in the Mpilo Central Hospital.