Predictors of blood transfusion among maternity patients at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano, North-western Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Blood transfusion is a life-saving intervention, but inappropriate usage of blood components in obstetric emergencies is  highly likely to increase the risk of maternal morbidity and mortality. Hemorrhage among maternity patients is a common but preventable cause of maternal mortality in sub-Saharan Africa. Safe blood transfusion is an effective panacea to save maternal lives in  these circumstances. The study is aimed to investigate predictors of blood transfusion amongst maternity patients at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective design was employed for the study over a period of one year from 1st January to 31st December  and 381 formed the samplesize. A standardize instrument based on World Health Organization was adapted for the study

Results: The results showed that majority of patients were less than 31years, with high prevalence rate of blood transfusion (30.64%).  Uterine atony, genital laceration, postpartum bleeding and singleton baby were independent predictors of blood transfusion P< 0.005.  

Conclusions: it was concluded that there is high prevalence rate of blood transfusion and uterine atony, genital laceration among others  were independent predictors of blood transfusion among the studied group. Therefore, it is recommended that decision on blood   transfusion should be made based on clinical and hematological criteria.