Characteristics and Management of Chorioamnionitis at an Academic Centre in Ontario Before and After Implementation of an Order Set.

OBJECTIVE: Chorioamnionitis has implications for parturient and neonatal outcomes but is difficult to diagnose accurately. The particulars of management also differ between providers and between institutions. Clinical order sets have been shown to standardize and improve care. This study compares characteristics of chorioamnionitis and aspects of management before and after implementation of an order set.

METHODS: Chart review facilitated comparison of 76 cases occurring prior to implementation of the order set and 66 cases occurring after. Characteristics of chorioamnionitis used for diagnosis and particulars of management were assessed.

RESULTS: There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between the groups. Parturient tachycardia was more prevalent in cases occurring after implementation of the order set but there was no difference in the percentage of cases meeting Gibb's criteria. Management of cases pre- and post-implementation of the order set differed only in antibiotic choice. Percentage of cases with blood cultures or placental examination performed did not differ.

CONCLUSION: Overall, implementation of the order set did not significantly impact diagnosis of chorioamnionitis and altered management only with respect to antibiotic choice.