KNOWLEDGE OF OBSTETRIC DANGER SIGNS AMONG WOMEN OF CHILD BEARING AGE IN THE RURAL COMMUNITIES OF CROSS RIVER STATE, NIGERIA.
Maternal mortality and morbidity remains a huge health problem in Nigeria, this problem is more in the rural communities of Nigeria. Pregnancy if not well managed could lead to obstetric dangers, and obstetric dangers if not well managed could lead to maternal health complications and death. This study explores the knowledge and understanding of obstetric danger signs among women of child bearing age (pregnant women and new mothers) in rural communities of Cross River State, Nigeria. The study was conducted using a qualitative descriptive approach that applied semi structured interviews. Akpabuyo Local Government Area (LGA) one of 18 LGAs that make up Cross River State, Nigeria was used as study area. Non probability sampling known as purposive sampling was used. The aim was to choose participants who will most benefit the study in terms of data gathering. Qualitative data analysis which involved data reduction, organisation and subsequent interpretation was done from which themes emerged. The study revealed limited knowledge regarding obstetric danger signs and the importance of hospital delivery among the rural women of the study communities. Based on these findings, recommendations made included the need for collaboration between the rural communities and nurses/midwives and other healthcare professionals, for the purpose of engaging the community to achieve the sensitisation and health education of rural women, their families and the entire community on obstetric dangers for early recognition, importance of utilising skilled care during pregnancy, delivery and postpartum for early intervention, and the hazards of home delivery, among others, thus bringing about prevention or reduction of maternal health complications and death in the rural communities.