The Lagos State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Saving One Million Lives Programme for Results (SOMLPforR), has trained 40 healthcare workers on the active management of the third stage of labor to reduce maternal mortality.
The three-day training, held at the LCCI Conference Centre in Alausa-Ikeja, equipped healthcare workers with skills to manage childbirth and postpartum complications, focusing on preventing excessive bleeding, a leading cause of maternal deaths in Nigeria.
Participants learned about clinical demonstrations using mannequins, hands-on practice with anti-shock garments, and uterotonic drugs. The training aimed to bridge the knowledge gap among newly recruited healthcare workers and update existing staff.
Dr. Folasade Oludara, Director of Family Health and Nutrition, emphasized the importance of the training in reducing maternal mortality, stating that it would equip healthcare workers with skills to manage postpartum hemorrhage effectively.
The training also addressed interpersonal skills, focusing on improving communication and empathy between healthcare workers and patients to enhance the overall birthing experience.
Facilitator Professor Yusuf Oshodi highlighted that the training aimed to reduce Nigeria’s high maternal mortality rate by addressing excessive bleeding and hypertensive disorders in pregnancy.
Dr. Victoria Omoera, Director and Reproductive Health Coordinator, presented a comprehensive proposal to improve maternal care, reduce maternal mortality, and strengthen systems for safer childbirth.
Participants expressed appreciation for the practical approach and potential to save lives, acknowledging the importance of continuous learning for healthcare professionals.
Lagos State is committed to reducing maternal mortality, and this training is part of its efforts to ensure healthcare workers are equipped to handle maternal emergencies.
