THE ROLE OF OBSTETRIC NURSING IN PREVENTING MATERNAL DEATHS DUE TO UTERINE ATONY: STRATEGIES AND PREVENTION

Abstract

This article aimed to report on the role of nurses in the prevention and management of postpartum hemorrhage, recognized as one of the main causes of maternal mortality in Brazil. The objective was to identify essential practices adopted by nursing professionals to reduce complications and increase maternal safety. The research was conducted through a qualitative and descriptive literature review, using articles published between 2019 and 2025, selected from electronic databases and institutional repositories according to previously established inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results demonstrated that nurses play a decisive role from the early identification of risk factors to the implementation of care protocols, such as continuous monitoring, use of updated protocols, active management of the third stage of labor, and rapid intervention in the face of clinical signs of instability. The analysis also showed that educational practices, continuous training, and interdisciplinary work strengthen the quality of care. In summary, it was observed that the qualified performance of nurses directly impacts the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage, highlighting the need for continuous improvement, institutional investment, and appreciation of professional competencies to reduce adverse outcomes and promote safe care.