European journal of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology
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Capturing 'near miss' and severe maternal morbidity using standard definitions is challenging. Information about levels of care required by ill pregnant or recently pregnant women may be more informative. The aim of this study was to prospectively audit incidence, causes, categorisation of maternal morbidity and level of care required by patients admitted to a labour ward high dependency unit (HDU) in a stand-alone obstetric hospital. ⋯ Approximately one quarter of women requiring HDU care 'lie beneath' criteria for near miss or severe maternal complications. One third of women admitted to the HDU require Level 2 care and the remainder require higher levels of monitoring only. The majority of cases are antepartum and delivery is integral in their care. HDU care in a labour ward setting is a good model for care of the ill pregnant or recently pregnant woman.