A service evaluation of departmental compliance with obstetric neuraxial intervention follow-up

Abstract

Aims
Professional guidance recommends routine post-neuraxial follow-up to detect complications and assess patient experience. This service evaluation examined departmental compliance with a neuraxial follow-up system and described routinely collected maternal satisfaction data.

Methods
A retrospective audit was conducted of all obstetric patients receiving neuraxial intervention in 2024. Departmental compliance with obstetric neuraxial follow-up was assessed as the primary outcome. Maternal satisfaction rate data was described.

Results
Compliance with follow-up was 346 patients (78.6%) for labour epidurals and 341 (57.6%) for operative deliveries. Discharge before review was the most common reason for missed follow-ups. Maternal satisfaction in those appropriately followed up was high; 328 patients (94.7%) for labour epidurals; 336 patients (98.5%) for operative deliveries.

Conclusion
Post-neuraxial follow-up compliance was suboptimal, representing a quality gap. While reported satisfaction was high, interpretation is limited by using a non-validated tool and poor compliance with follow-up. Strengthening systematic follow-up processes may improve quality assurance and patient safety in obstetric anaesthesia.