The Joint Commission: Proactive prevention of maternal death from maternal haemorrhage

Summary

In the US, approximately 700 women die annually from pregnancy-related complications.The most frequent cause of severe maternal morbidity and preventable maternal mortality is obstetric haemorrhage — excessive blood loss from giving birth.

As a result of this significant patient safety concern, The Joint Commission introduced two new standards, effective 1 July 2020, to address complications in maternal haemorrhage and severe hypertension/ preeclampsia. This Quick Safety provides background information around strategies for the management of maternal haemorrhage that are outlined in new Provision of Care, Treatment, and Services standard.