The FAST-M complex intervention for the detection and management of maternal sepsis in low-resource settings: a multi-site evaluation.

Abstract

ObjectiveTo evaluate whether the implementation of the FAST-M complex intervention was feasible and improved the recognition and management of maternal sepsis in a low-resource setting.DesignA before and after design.SettingFifteen government healthcare facilities in Malawi.PopulationWomen suspected of having maternal sepsis.MethodsThe FAST-M complex intervention consisted of the following components: i) the FAST-M maternal sepsis treatment bundle and ii) the FAST-M implementation programme. Performance of selected process outcomes were compared between a two month baseline phase and six month intervention phase with compliance used as a proxy measure of feasibility.Main outcome resultCompliance with vital sign recording and use of the FAST-M maternal sepsis bundle.ResultsFollowing implementation of the FAST-M intervention, women were more likely to have a complete set of vital signs taken on admission to the wards (0/163 (0%) vs. 169/252 (67.1%), pConclusionImplementation of the FAST-M complex intervention was feasible and led to the improved recognition and management of suspected maternal sepsis in a low-resource setting such as Malawi