Background
In the past 10 years, rates of Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury (OASI) have increased in England. Experiences in some maternity units have shown that some of the underlying problems related to this rise in OASI include:
- Inconsistencies in approaches to preventing OASIs
- Inconsistencies in training and skills
- Lack of awareness of risk factors and long-term impact of OASIs
- Variation in practice between health professionals
In light of this, the OASI care bundle team have developed and piloted an intervention package, including a care bundle and guide, a multidisciplinary skills development module for health care professionals, and campaign materials (such as leaflets and newsletters designed to raise awareness).
The OASI Care Bundle Project received funding from the Health Foundation Scaling Up Programme to implement this intervention in 16 maternity units across England, Scotland and Wales.
The RCOG and RCM would like to encourage all healthcare professionals to adopt the care bundle into their practice to improve health outcomes for women.
Read the statement of support
Formal implementation of the care bundle in the 16 participating units has ended, and the project team are now evaluating the care bundle.
Read the study protocol for the project.
Watch: The OASI team discuss learnings from the project