Maternity investigations show the number of intrapartum stillbirths has increased within the period of April to June 2020, compared to previous year's data.
“As with any instance of the death of a baby or child, stillbirths have longlasting effects on parents, their families and healthcare professionals. The unexpected death of a baby, where parents have no time to prepare, as in the case of intrapartum stillbirth, has a considerable impact on all. Stillbirths have been associated with significant negative emotional, psychological, social and financial consequences for families who endure this experience.”
According to the investigation, in 2020 there were 46 stillbirth referrals, in comparison to 24 referrals the previous year in the same period. These findings put in place a Healthcare Safety Investigation Branch (HSIB) national learning report, which can be used by healthcare professionals, policymakers and the public.
The national learning report helps:
- develop the knowledge of systemic patient safety risks
- understand the fundamental contributing factors
- help decision-making for the improvement of patient safety
- explore wider patient safety processes
The HSIB national learning report looks for the context within which the intrapartum stillbirths took place, while looking for an understanding of the increase in referrals. The report pinpoints learning that aims to improve patient safety across the healthcare system, sharing the learnings within NHS Trusts.
The investigation resulted in six safety recommendations, five issued to NHS England and NHS Improvement, one to Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, one to NHSX, and one to DHSC.
Read the safety recommendations and responses here.