Reorganising and improving quality of care for hyperemesis gravidarum in a Danish hospital: a quality improvement project

BACKGROUND: Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is a pregnancy complication comprising severe nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. It is associated with adverse outcomes for both mother and child. Treatment consists primarily of antiemetics and intravenous fluids; however, support from healthcare professionals is also important.

LOCAL PROBLEM: At the department of obstetrics at Nordsjællands Hospital, an increasing workload caused challenges regarding patient care and organisation for patients with HG, and exploring possibilities of reorganising HG care to release midwife resources was warranted.

METHODS: Through input from staff and patients, possible improvements were identified. Plan-do-study-act cycles were conducted with staff and patients, resulting in adjustments in care and organisation and thus use of resources. The specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely aims included patient satisfaction and number of follow-ups conducted via phone.

INTERVENTIONS: HG care was relocated to the department of gynaecology, where it was managed primarily by nurses. Staff and patients were actively involved in the process.

RESULTS: HG care was successfully relocated without compromising patient satisfaction. Additionally, an option of patient-administered home treatment for selected patients was established.

CONCLUSION: This quality improvement project describes the relocation and set-up of hospital care provided to patients with HG, resulting in high patient satisfaction. This project might serve as an inspiration to other departments of obstetrics and gynaecology.