South Africa's maternity wards have faced criticism for poor service, leading to unnecessary deaths of mothers and babies. The country's maternal death rate is 133 per 100,000 births, with uneven care quality and access. To tackle this, the National Department of Health has introduced new guidelines, updating previous versions since 2015. These guidelines focus on Standardized care, Respectful treatment, Informed consent and Better communication.

Maternity nurses are crucial in communities, providing vital care during pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal periods. Their expertise directly affects mothers' and babies' health. Good care during pregnancy and childbirth is vital for healthy outcomes. The guidelines emphasize better support before and after birth; and quick response to complications. The guidelines also take into consideration the training healthcare workers with empathy; addressing systemic challenges and resource allocation; and ensuring respectful care. To help us unpack these new guidelines, we are joined by…

Guest: Mr Ellence Mokaba - Director of Maternal and Neonatal Health