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Cost implications of the use of magnesium sulphate for the prevention of convulsions in severe pre-eclampsia


O Owalabi
J Moodley

Abstract

Objective: to assess the direct financial costs of using MgS04 for the prevention of convulsions in the management of severe pre-eclampsia.


Method: a prospective costing study using resource data obtained from hospital records. Unit costs per patient were calculated. The costs to health provider only, of using or not using MgS04 are reported.


Setting: department of obstetrics and gynaecology of King Edward VIII Hospital, Durban, South Africa.196 patients records were analysed and reviewed between 1 July and 31 December 2003.


Results: the average unit cost per day for patients on MgS04 was R1575.12 while that of those not on MgS04 was R1085.15.


Conclusion: Use of MgS04 to treat the severe pre-eclamptic patient has cost implications but, a case for its use in patients with severe pre-eclampsia can be made.


Obstetrics and Gynaecology Forum Vol 15 (3) 2005: 9-12

Journal Identifiers


eISSN: 1027-9148
print ISSN: 1029-1962