Open AccessNational survey of routines for intrapartum fetal monitoring in Norway
Author(s) -
Kaasen Anne,
Aanstad Kristin J.,
Pay Aase S. D.,
Økland Inger,
Blix Ellen
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
acta obstetricia et gynecologica scandinavica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.401
H-Index - 102
eISSN - 1600-0412
pISSN - 0001-6349
DOI - 10.1111/aogs.13500
Subject(s) - medicine , cardiotocography , fetal monitoring , obstetrics , umbilical cord , fetal distress , fetus , blood sampling , pregnancy , emergency medicine , genetics , anatomy , biology
Abstract Introduction This study describes clinical routines for intrapartum fetal monitoring in Norway and compliance with national clinical recommendations. Material and methods A national survey of all (n = 48) birth units in Norway, using a self‐reporting questionnaire about fetal monitoring methods and devices available in the birth units, admission cardiotocography ( CTG ) use, intrapartum fetal monitoring methods for women with and without risk factors, the availability of fetal scalp blood sampling facilities, and umbilical cord blood sampling routines. Results All birth units responded. They all had access to Pinard stethoscopes, hand‐held Doppler devices, and CTG . Half of the units used ST waveform analysis ( STAN ) as an adjunct to CTG . Furthermore, 23 of 48 units analyzed fetal blood samples and 43 of 48 umbilical cord blood gas samples. In 11 units, admission CTG was routinely offered to all women. No units used continuous CTG during labor in low‐risk women. However, three units routinely used intermittent CTG during the first stage of labor. Three units used CTG without having access to fetal blood samples or STAN . Conclusions Our findings indicate some deviations from clinical recommendations in the use of intrapartum fetal monitoring in Norway. Three units used intermittent CTG for women without risk factors. Almost one in four units routinely used admission CTG , despite national clinical recommendations. The lack of access to fetal blood samples or STAN in units using CTG is of concern.