OBJECTIVES: to assess prenatal healthcare in a philanthropic institution in the city of São Paulo according to the Donabedian proposal. METHODS: to assess indicators pregnancy age in the beginning of prenatal care; number, procedures and consultation intervals and laboratory exams, the Kessner index as adapted by Takeda was applied. Data were obtained through auditing of 635 medical files from July 2000 to June, 2001. The significance level of statistical exams was of 5%. RESULTS: prenatal medical visits median was of 6.5 (dp=2.7) and pregnancy age at the beginning of prenatal care was of 20.7 weeks (dp=7.7). Medical visits procedures adequacy varied from 92.6% a 97.8% and medical visits interval was 53,7% to 100%. The application of the Kessner Index rated prenatal care as being adequate for 38.4% of pregnant women, inadequate for 24.7% and intermediary for 36.9%. The Kessner index compounded by exams results rated prenatal care as being adequate for 35,7% of pregnant women, inadequate for 28.3% and intermediate for 35.9%. CONCLUSIONS: the type of assessment adopted is viable is allows for periodical applications aiming at adequacy improvement of the care offered.
Outcome and process assessment (Health care); Prenatal care; Obstetrical nursing
