Clinical Audit for Management of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Compliance with Standards

Background: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common complication in pregnancy associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. Adherence to clinical guidelines, such as those from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), is crucial for effective management.Objective: To assess compliance with RCOG guidelines for the management of GDM in a clinical setting.Methods: A clinical audit was conducted at Lady Willingdon Hospital, Lahore, over 12 months, including 100 pregnant women diagnosed with GDM. Data were collected retrospectively and prospectively from patient records, antenatal logs, and laboratory findings. Compliance with RCOG guidelines was assessed for screening by OGTT, dietary advice, regular blood glucose monitoring, and pharmacotherapy. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with compliance rates calculated as percentages.Results: Compliance rates were 92% for screening by OGTT, 78% for receiving dietary advice, 69% for regular blood glucose monitoring, and 57% for receiving metformin or insulin. Non-compliance rates were highest in pharmacotherapy at 43%.Conclusion: The audit identified strong compliance in GDM screening but highlighted significant gaps in other management areas. Enhancing adherence to guidelines could improve patient outcomes.