Utilization of partograph during labour: A case of Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia

The World Health Organization recommends the utilization of partograph for all laboring mothers. Partograph is a cost-effective, single sheet of paper that is used to follow maternal and fetal condition and progress of labour. Obstructed and prolonged labours are major causes of maternal deaths. These causes can be minimized by routine utilization of partograph. However, several maternal and fetal deaths occur in health facilities due to poor quality of labour follow-up. Therefore, this study aims to assess the utilization of partograph and associated factors among obstetric care providers working in Wolaita zone health facilities, Southern Ethiopia. An institution-based cross-sectional survey was conducted from April to May 2016. A pretested and structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data. Data entry and analysis was conducted using SPSS Version 21.0. Logistic regression was used to identify associations. A P value <0.2 in binary logistic regression were transferred to multiple logistic regressions. Odds ratio with 95% CI, P-value <0.05 were considered as statistically significant. Of a total of 442 participants, 73.6% utilize partograph routinely. From the total variables in the study, a midwifery profession showed a significant association with the dependent variable (AOR = 4.7,95% CI:1.8–12). The utilization of partograph in the study area was low as per the World Health Organization recommendation. This study recommends that assigning midwives in the obstetric ward other than other health professionals will increase the routine utilization of partograph.