Prehospital management of postpartum hemorrhage – perspectives from Polish EMS teams

Background Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a critical obstetric complication and a major contributor to maternal mortality globally. Emergency medical teams provide essential prehospital care for pregnant patients, who may experience complications such as PPH.This study aimed to evaluate prehospital personnel’s education, training, knowledge, and experiences related to PPH in Poland, as well as potential associations between their education and experience and knowledge.Methods Emergency Medical Services (EMS) teams from across Poland were invited to complete an online questionnaire. The survey included questions on demographics, education, training, knowledge, and experience regarding PPH. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression in R, with results presented as odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.Results A total of 213 EMS personnel participated in the study, with a median age of 36 years and a median professional experience of 8 years. The majority were male and worked in towns with populations up to 30,000 residents. Only 62 (29%) of them had received theoretical or practical training in PPH management, while 207 (97%) expressed a desire for further training. Only 23 (11%) of respondents had managed a PPH case. On knowledge questions, correct responses ranged from 3.3% to 54%. Regression analyses found no consistent association between experience, education, and knowledge, apart from oxytocin dose and indication.Conclusions Our study shows gaps in preparedness of Polish EMS personnel and emphasizes the need for training programs to improve patient safety and outcomes.