# A Prospective Study on the Clinical Spectrum and Outcomes of Obstetric Critical Care Admissions at Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences, Amalapuram - A Tertiary Care Centre in Coastal India

## TL;DR

This study examines the clinical conditions and outcomes of critically ill pregnant women admitted to a hospital in coastal India, highlighting the need for better antenatal care and timely referrals.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into critical obstetric care in a resource-limited setting in coastal India.

## Key findings

- Most patients were referred from peripheral centers and were unregistered.
- Obstetric haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders were the main causes of admission.
- All maternal deaths occurred among referred cases, and many neonates required NICU care.

## Abstract

Background: Managing critically ill obstetric patients is complex due to dual maternal and fetal considerations. In resource-limited settings, delayed referrals from peripheral centres often worsen outcomes.

Objective: To analyse the clinical spectrum, management, and outcomes of obstetric patients requiring critical care at a tertiary facility in coastal India.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over two years, involving obstetric patients admitted to the critical care unit (CCU). Data on demographics, diagnoses, interventions, and outcomes were analysed descriptively.

Results: Most patients were unregistered and referred from peripheral centres. Obstetric haemorrhage and hypertensive disorders were the predominant causes of admission. Respiratory distress was a leading clinical indication. All maternal deaths occurred among referred cases. A considerable number of neonates required NICU care, indicating associated fetal compromise.

Conclusion: Strengthening antenatal care, timely referral, and implementing tools like the Modified Early Obstetric Warning Score (MEOWS) can improve maternal and fetal outcomes in critical obstetric cases.