Conference Abstract Compendium Examples from the ... - CityMatCH

2009 CityMatCH Urban MCH Leadership ConferenceIronically, the focus group was held on the eve of an evacuation order for the Florida Keys because ofimpending Hurricane Ike.The need for standardized evidence-based protocols in place to assist this vulnerable population wasreinforced by the results of the Florida Key focus group perceptions. The need for clear instructions forwomen who must give birth during any type of crisis with minimal or no assistance can be introducedduring prenatal visits and childbirth education classes. Information should include instructions forgathering supplies for a basic birth kit and basic delivery instructions.Priorities should also include preventing unnecessary post-disaster mortality in both mother and baby.Emergency relief staff must be trained in proper health protection of infants specific to breastfeeding, safefeeding, and relactation.INFORMATION FOR REPLICATIONWe believe that every community and hospital should work with local maternal and child health groups toaddress childbirth and care of postpartum women and care of infants. Of concern is the need for prenatalcare to continue to prevent preterm birth, provide skilled care during birth, especially if services areunreachable or unavailable, and proper care and feeding of newborns.The need for clear instructions for women who must give birth during any type of crisis with minimal orno assistance can be introduced during prenatal visits and childbirth education classes. Information shouldinclude instructions for gathering supplies for a basic birth kit and basic delivery instructions.Healthy Start Programs, WIC programs and emergency management agencies would be considered keystakeholders to ensure policy development and implementation.129