Maternal Mortality in the Delta Region of the United States

Conclusion/Implications for Nursing PracticeOverall maternal mortality is significantly greater in the Delta region of the United States than in the non‐Delta region. After controlling for maternal race/ethnicity, age, marital status, and education, the risk of maternal death remains 16% higher in the Delta region.This study provides a statistical representation of a long‐held belief that the risk of maternal mortality in a medically underserved area of low socioeconomic status within the United States is significantly higher than in other areas of the country. Health disparities and socioeconomic differences likely play important roles in this difference. Implications for nursing practice include efforts to provide more current and effective health care to these women and patient education regarding high risk health conditions and preventing unintended pregnancies.

Source: Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing - June 4, 2015 Category: Nursing Authors: Barbara L. Smith, Adam T. Sandlin, Tommy M. Bird, Susan C. Steelman, E.F. Magann Tags: Childbearing Source Type: research