Assessment of obstetric and gynaecology emergency service at Mater Dei Hospital

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Busy and overcrowded Emergency Departments (ED) are a major concern worldwide. Their ease of access results in overutilisation and inappropriate use with patients presenting with non-urgent health problems. The aim of this study was to quantify and assess the workload on the Obstetric and Gynaecology Emergency Service at Mater Dei Hospital and, by means of this data, assess what improvements could be put forward to improve the service.

METHOD: A retrospective analysis of patients attending Gynaecology Admission Room at Mater Dei Hospital over a period of 140 days. Patient demographics and presenting complaints were noted. Patients were divided into three main cohorts: Early Pregnancy, Advanced Pregnancy and Gyaecology cases.

RESULTS: 3357 cases seen in total over the 140 days. Therefore, on average 24 cases were seen every day. 62% were gynaecology cases, 30% were early pregnancy cases and 8% were advanced pregnancy cases.

CONCLUSION: The Gynaecology Admission Room is a very busy unit which is currently being overcrowded with non-urgent referrals. This points towards an improvement of the primary care obstetric and gynaecology service, as well as an appropriate triage system to be put in place. The establishment of an Early Pregnancy Assessment Unit may help further to streamline early obstetric care.