Improving Maternal Health: An Extensive Analysis of ANM's Critical Involvement in Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BP/CR) for Safe Motherhood-A Comprehensive Review

Abstract

Introduction: A preparation for a typical delivery and being ready for any emergency that may occur is called delivery Preparedness and Complication Readiness, or BPCR. To ensure that a pregnant woman has access to professional obstetric health services when labour starts, it entails proactive planning and decision-making for the moment of birth. These consist of several little actions that, when taken collectively, have a significant impact on enhancing maternal health and lowering maternal mortality. This review critically examines the pivotal role of Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) in ensuring safe motherhood through birth preparedness and complication readiness (BP/CR) strategies. By analysing existing literature, this paper underscores the importance of ANMs in improving maternal health outcomes, particularly in low-resource settings. Through a comprehensive review of relevant studies, policies, and programs, the review highlights the multifaceted responsibilities of ANMs and their critical involvement in BP/CR initiatives. Moreover, the paper identifies key challenges faced by ANMs and offers recommendations for empowering them to effectively fulfil their role in promoting safe motherhood.

Objectives: This comprehensive review aims to analyse the pivotal role of Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) in facilitating birth preparedness and complication readiness (BP/CR) to ensure safe motherhood. By examining existing literature, guidelines, and practices, the review seeks to evaluate the significance of ANMs in maternal healthcare systems worldwide, investigate the components of birth preparedness and complication readiness (BP/CR) and their impact on maternal and neonatal outcomes, examine the challenges and barriers faced by ANMs in delivering effective BP/CR services, and explore successful strategies and interventions employed by ANMs to enhance BP/CR and maternal health outcomes.

Methods: A systematic search was conducted across electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, MEDLINE, and relevant organizational websites (e.g., WHO, UNFPA) using keywords such as "Auxiliary Nurse Midwives," "Birth Preparedness," "Complication Readiness," "Maternal Health," and variations thereof. The search was limited to articles published in English within the last ten years (2014-2024) to ensure relevance. Data Extraction and Synthesis done with relevant data, including study design, population characteristics, key findings, and recommendations, were extracted from selected articles and synthesized to identify common themes, trends, and gaps in the literature.

Results: Gaps in Research and Practice: Despite the progress made, there are notable gaps in research and practice regarding ANMs' involvement in BP/CR. Limited evidence exists on the long-term effectiveness of BP/CR interventions, especially in diverse settings. Moreover, the perspectives of ANMs themselves and the communities they serve are often overlooked in program design and evaluation.

Conclusions: Based on the findings, recommendations are provided for policymakers, healthcare providers, and stakeholders to strengthen ANMs' role in promoting safe motherhood through BP/CR initiatives. These include investing in comprehensive training programs, improving access to essential resources, addressing systemic barriers, and fostering multi-sectoral collaboration to enhance maternal healthcare delivery.