Overview
Fetal Monitoring is a diagnostic procedure used to assess fetal well-being during pregnancy and labor. It includes cardiotocography (CTG) and other monitoring techniques.
Fetal monitoring is crucial for detecting fetal distress, guiding obstetric management, and ensuring fetal safety during labor and delivery.
Learn more in our comprehensive RxDx OBG Course
Indications
During active labor
Preeclampsia, diabetes
Maternal concern
Beyond 41 weeks
VBAC monitoring
Contraindications
Absolute Contraindications
Relative Contraindications
📋 Equipment Checklist
Check off items as you gather them:
Pre-procedure Preparation
Preparation includes patient consent, equipment setup, proper positioning, and understanding monitoring parameters.Step-by-Step Procedure
Step 1: Patient Preparation
Explain procedure, position patient, obtain consent.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Inadequate explanation
- Poor positioning
💡 Pro Tip:
Position patient comfortably.
Step 2: Equipment Setup
Set up CTG machine and transducers.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong setup
- Poor contact
💡 Pro Tip:
Ensure good transducer contact.
Step 3: Transducer Placement
Place FHR and uterine activity transducers.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong placement
- Poor signal
💡 Pro Tip:
Find optimal fetal heart position.
Step 4: Monitoring
Monitor for 20-60 minutes.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Insufficient time
- Poor quality
💡 Pro Tip:
Monitor for adequate duration.
Step 5: Interpretation
Interpret CTG tracing.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Wrong interpretation
- Missed abnormalities
💡 Pro Tip:
Use systematic approach.
Step 6: Documentation
Document findings and plan.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Poor documentation
- Incomplete plan
💡 Pro Tip:
Document clearly and completely.
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Post-procedure Care
Post-procedure care involves interpreting results, documenting findings, and planning appropriate management.Complications & Management
| Complication | Incidence | Signs | Management | Prevention |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| False reassurance | 5-10% | Normal CTG with fetal distress | Clinical correlation | Comprehensive assessment |
| False positive | 10-20% | Abnormal CTG with normal fetus | Repeat monitoring | Proper interpretation |
| Technical difficulties | 5-15% | Poor signal quality | Reposition transducers | Proper setup |
| Maternal discomfort | 10-20% | Back pain, discomfort | Reposition, analgesia | Comfortable positioning |
Clinical Pearls
Use systematic approach to interpretation.
Ensure good transducer contact.
Monitor for adequate duration.
Correlate with clinical findings.
Document findings clearly.
Position patient comfortably.
Act on concerning findings promptly.