Practice and knowledge of umbilical cord clamping of terms infants among midwives and obstetricians in Jordan: A national study

Abstract

Background: The absence of clinical guidelines on umbilical cord clamping may hinder evidence-based practice by midwives and obstetricians in Jordan.

Objective: To investigate current practices and knowledge among midwives and obstetricians regarding umbilical cord clamping for term infants and the influence of socio-demographic and professional factors.

Methods: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted with 274 midwives and 51 obstetricians from 25 public hospitals that provide intrapartum care in Jordan. A paper-based questionnaire assessed current practices and knowledge regarding umbilical cord clamping.

Results: Most midwives and obstetricians (69.8 %) reported routinely performing early cord clamping for term infants (within < 1 minute of childbirth). Around 61 % of participants reported poor knowledge regarding the benefits of delayed cord clamping. While participants with Bachelor and higher degree level education achieved higher knowledge scores, age was inversely correlated. Participants aged over 30 years, with more than 5 years' experience, diploma level qualifications, obstetricians, and those with poor knowledge were more likely to perform early cord clamping.

Conclusion: Around two-thirds of midwives and obstetricians reported poor knowledge regarding the benefits of delayed cord clamping and were more likely to perform early cord clamping. Results highlight the need for national guidelines in Jordan in conjunction with continued education and training regarding umbilical cord clamping.

Keywords: Delayed cord clamping; Early cord clamping; Knowledge; Midwives; Obstetricians; Placental transfusion; Practice; Term birth; Umbilical cord clamping.