Planning Grant for the Scale Up of the NASG Maternal Mortality Reduction Project in Nigeria

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Investigator: Suellen Miller, PhD, CNM, MHA
Sponsor: John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.

Location(s): Nigeria

Description

The Non-pneumatic Anti-Shock Garment (NASG)

What is it?
The NASG is a simple neoprene and Velcro device much like the bottom half of a wet suit split down the middle.

How does it work?
When in shock, the brain, heart, and lungs are deprived of oxygen because blood accumulates in the lower abdomen and legs. The NASG reverses shock by returning blood to the vital organs. This will restore the woman’s consciousness, pulse, and blood pressure. Additionally, the NASG slows blood flow to the lower body and decreases bleeding.

How is the NASG used?
After a simple training session, anyone can put the garment on a bleeding woman. Once her bleeding has stopped, she can be safely transported from a home birth or primary health care center to a referral facility for emergency obstetrical care.