Satisfaction with spinal anaesthesia for Caesarean section at Tembisa Hospital, South Africa: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: The most recommended type of anaesthesia by many obstetric guidelines for Caesarean section (CS) is spinal anaesthesia. This to achieve a higher level of pain and comfort control for the patient during and after CS. Little scientific research has assessed mothers’ satisfaction with spinal anaesthesia. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted at the maternity unit of Tembisa Hospital, South Africa in March 2014. Results: Overall satisfaction with spinal anaesthesia was 77.1%. The mean age (SD) was 27.9 (5.8) years. CS was mostly done as an emergency 63 (76.8%). The level of satisfaction varied greatly. There was a linear regression between age and answer scores regarding preoperative explanations (r = 0.2. R-squared = 0.05, p-value of 0.03. There was an association between preoperative explanations and gravidity (OR 13.1; CL 95%; CI 1.9–41.7; p = 0.0018). In perioperative time, elective CS was associated with verbal communication with the doctor administrating the spinal anaesthesia (OR 13.5; CL 95% CI 0.7–237.3; p = 0.0017). Pain at the injection site of lumbar puncture (OR 4; CL 95% CI 1.2–13; p = 0.025) and the atmosphere in the theatre (OR 4.1; CL 95% CI 1.1–15.5; p = 0.02) were determinant for future choice of spinal anaesthesia. Conclusion: Integrating pre-anaesthesia explanations in antenatal care and pre-anaesthesia counselling during labour and the use of adequate medication to reduce discomfort, pain and shivering may increase maternal satisfaction with spinal anaesthesia for CS.