EFFECT OF NURSING INTERVENTIONS ON THE PERFORMANCE OF MATERNITY NURSES REGARDING THE MANAGEMENT OF ECLAMPSIA

Abstract

Background: Eclampsia remains a critical obstetric emergency that significantly contributes to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, especially in low-resource settings. Nurses play a central role in early recognition and management, yet evidence suggests substantial knowledge and practice gaps persist. Aim: This study aimed to assess and improve the knowledge and clinical practices of head nurses regarding the immediate and ongoing management of eclampsia at Jinnah Hospital through a structured educational intervention. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre-post study design was employed involving 36 permanent nurses from Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics departments. Data were collected using a structured knowledge questionnaire and observational checklists covering both emergency response and hourly monitoring of eclamptic patients. A comprehensive educational intervention was delivered, and post-assessment was conducted using the same tools. Paired samples t-tests were applied to analyze the difference in pre- and post-intervention scores; all analysis was done using SPSS software v 24. Results: Pre-intervention knowledge scores were low, with an average of 32.95%, and practice compliance also lagged. Post-intervention, average knowledge increased to 72.2%, with practices improving by over 40 percentage points across multiple critical areas. Paired t-tests confirmed statistically significant improvements in both knowledge (t=12.859, p<.000) and practice (t=16.221, p<.000), demonstrating the intervention’s effectiveness. Conclusion: The findings underscore the effectiveness of structured training in enhancing nurse competency in managing eclampsia. Regular clinical education, protocol adherence, and practical simulations are essential for sustained maternal care quality and patient safety.