The FAST-M complex intervention for the detection and management of maternal sepsis in low-resource settings:a multi-site evaluation

ObjectiveTo evaluate whether the implementation of the FAST‐M complex intervention was feasible and improved the recognition and management of maternal sepsis in a low‐resource setting.DesignA before‐and‐after design.SettingFifteen government healthcare facilities in Malawi.PopulationWomen suspected of having maternal sepsis.MethodsThe FAST‐M complex intervention consisted of the following components: the FAST‐M maternal sepsis treatment bundle and the FAST‐M implementation programme. Performance of selected process outcomes was compared between a 2‐month baseline phase and 6‐month intervention phase with compliance used as a proxy measure of feasibility.Main outcome resultCompliance with vital sign recording and use of the FAST‐M maternal sepsis bundle.ResultsFollowing implementation of the FAST‐M intervention, women were more likely to have a complete set of vital signs taken on admission to the wards (0/163 [0%] versus 169/252 [67.1%], P P P = 0.091). In particular, women were more likely to receive antibiotics (3/12 [25.0%] versus 72/107 [67.3%], P = 0.004) within 1 hour of recognition of suspected sepsis.ConclusionImplementation of the FAST‐M complex intervention was feasible and led to the improved recognition and management of suspected maternal sepsis in a low‐resource setting such as Malawi.Tweetable AbstractImplementation of a sepsis care bundle for low‐resources improved recognition & management of maternal sepsis.