Assessment of Healthcare Providers' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Immediate Postpartum Monitoring at Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Abstract
Introduction
The immediate postpartum period (first 24 hours after delivery) is a critical phase associated with the majority of maternal deaths worldwide, particularly in low-resource settings. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), maternal mortality remains alarmingly high, yet data on healthcare providers' capacity for postpartum monitoring are scarce.
Methods
A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2025 to March 2026 at Wangata General Referral Hospital and CSR Mama Balako in Mbandaka, DRC. A convenience sample of 70 healthcare providers (physicians, nurses, midwives) completed a structured, self-administered questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding immediate postpartum monitoring. Bivariate analyses used Pearson's Chi-square test (significance threshold p < 0.05).
Results
The sample was predominantly female (55.7%), aged 35–44 years, with A1-level diplomas (42.9%) and 1–10 years of seniority (42.9%). While 78.6% reported regularly performing postpartum monitoring and 85.7% knew major complications (hemorrhage most cited, 38.5%), only 8.6% consistently provided postpartum health education. The main perceived challenge was high workload (24.3%). Bivariate analysis revealed significant associations between education level and postpartum monitoring practice (χ² = 38.281, p < 0.05), education level and complication knowledge (χ² = 28.182, p < 0.05), seniority and monitoring practice (χ² = 24.844, p < 0.05), and seniority and professional attitude (χ² = 216.557, p < 0.05).
Conclusion
Healthcare providers in Mbandaka demonstrate satisfactory knowledge and positive attitudes toward immediate postpartum monitoring. However, significant gaps persist in systematic practice and health education delivery. Education level and professional seniority are key determinants of monitoring quality. Targeted continuous training, standardized protocols, supportive supervision, and workload reduction are urgently needed to improve postpartum care quality and reduce preventable maternal mortality.
Keywords
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How to cite
Makenza Bobila, A. (2026). Assessment of Healthcare Providers' Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Immediate Postpartum Monitoring at Mbandaka, Democratic Republic of the Congo. SDF Journal of Public Health. https://sfoundation.one/articles/sdf-2026-0018-assessment-of-healthcare-providers-knowledge-attitudes-and-practices-r