Designing a BPACR Scoring System for a Tertiary Teaching Hospital.

Reg ID: 139

Abstract

Introduction: Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPACR) is a comprehensive strategy to promote timely utilization of skilled maternal, intranatal and neonatal care. Standardising the assessment of BPACR is of utmost importance to monitor effective implementation of related strategies and initiatives.

Methods: A desk review was conducted with the aim of framing a locally relevant BPACR assessment tool. Various databases were searched and relevant articles were shortlisted and examined to study the items used in their respective BPACR scoring system. A contextually appropriate measurement tool for use in our tertiary teaching hospital was framed.

Results: The reviewed studies demonstrated variation in BPACR assessment approaches. The number of items used ranged from 6 to 21 across various domains. Based on this review a scoring system was framed.

Conclusion: A BPACR scoring system with 25 items, for use among post-partum women delivered at our tertiary teaching hospital was framed. Validity was ensured by group of experts from the departments of Community Medicine and Obstetrics and Gynaecology. Internal consistency was tested by Cronbach’s alpha (0.73).  Each item will be given a score of 1 and grading done based on Bloom’s criteria as the items relate to knowledge, attitude and practice. As the institution is catering to mothers of different areas, our scoring system assesses individual preparedness.

Keywords: Birth preparedness and complication readiness, BPACR Score, Tertiary teaching hospital.