Objective: To assess the impact of interventions in a prenatal clinic on the influenza vaccination rate in pregnant women.
Study design: This retrospective study of women receiving care in a university prenatal clinic examined the impact of several interventions to increase immunization rates implemented over 2 years. Influenza vaccination rates were assessed before and after the interventions, which included provider and staff education, stocking of the vaccine in the clinic and implementation of standing orders.
Results: Influenza vaccination rates in pregnant women increased from <1% to 37%. Standing orders were the most important intervention for increasing immunization rates. Patients who received care in the certified nurse midwife clinic were more likely to be vaccinated, while those who received care in a high-risk obstetric clinic were less likely.
Conclusion: Interventions to improve influenza vaccination rates among pregnant women, particularly standing orders, are effective. These interventions should be implemented nationally in all prenatal care clinics.