Awareness of Warning Signs During Pregnancy Among Medical Students and Hospital Staff: A Cross-Sectional Questionnaire-Based Study

Abstract

Background: Early recognition of obstetric danger signs is critical to reducing maternal morbidity and mortality. Healthcare students and hospital staff play a pivotal role in identifying and educating patients about these warning signs.

Objective: To assess awareness of warning signs during pregnancy among medical students and hospital staff in India.

Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 250 participants, including 100 MBBS students and interns, 50 BDS dental students, and 100 hospital staff (nurses and technicians). The study was carried out across two medical college hospitals, two dental colleges, two nursing colleges, and one private hospital. A structured 15-item Likert-scale questionnaire was used. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: Overall awareness was adequate in 68% of participants. MBBS students demonstrated the highest awareness (78%), followed by nurses (72%), while technicians (60%) and dental students (55%) showed comparatively lower awareness. Knowledge gaps were noted in recognizing symptoms such as blurred vision, reduced fetal movements, and severe abdominal pain.

Conclusion: Although general awareness is satisfactory, targeted educational interventions are required, especially for dental students and non-clinical staff, to improve early detection of obstetric complications.