Objective: The contribution of Eclampsia to maternal mortality in Nigeria is well documented. In Irrua it accounts for over 25% of maternal deaths. Addressing Eclampsia is therefore a priority programme of the Irrua Safe motherhood Initiative.
Aim: The aim of this study is to determine the incidence of eclampsia, its clinical correlates and outcome. Finally strategies will formulate programme implementation.
Materials and methods: This is a retrospective study of cases of eclampsia in Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo state; over a five-year period. Information was retrieved using a structured proforma. Statistical analysis was done using the excel statistical package and the Epi info 2002 statistical software.
Results: Seventy eight (78) were admitted in the 5 year study. This accounted for 2.52% of total labour ward admission. However only 74 case notes were available for analysis. 70/74 of the patients were unbooked emergencies. Among the unbooked patients. 38/70 (54.29%) of the unbooked had not received any antenatal care whatsoever. The incidence was disproportionately higher in younger women and teenagers as well as in primigravida. 55/74 (74.32%) had preceding headache while 21.62% had a prior history of blurred vision, 14.86% had epigastric pain.16.22% had restlessness while 10.81% had nausea and vomiting each. The perinatal mortality rate was 28.38% while the maternal mortality ratio was 22.97%. Maternal mortality was associated with poor urinary output (0.0003), history of native medication (0.0199), number of fits (0.00209). Platelet count below 50,000/ml, highest systolic blood pressure above 200 mmhg (0.000018) and pulmonary oedema (0.000558).
Conclusion: Addressing Eclampsia in Irrua will include community campaigns, capacity building, retraining of staffs within the hospital and improved facilities for the management of cases.