Internal fetal monitoring is used to obtain more direct measurements of fetal heart rate and uterine activity during labor. Typically, internal monitoring requires a fetal scalp electrode and, in some cases, an intrauterine pressure catheter. Because these devices record signals from within the uterus, they are often viewed as providing greater accuracy than external monitoring. […]
Neonatal hypoglycemia presents a time-sensitive risk to the developing brain. Glucose is the primary energy source for neonatal cerebral function, but sustained or recurrent low levels can result in neurological injury. In litigation, cases involving missed hypoglycemia focus on whether risk factors were identified, whether glucose levels were appropriately monitored, and whether abnormal findings were […]
Maternal vital signs provided continuous, objective indicators of a patient’s physiological status during labor. Changes in heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, and temperature may signal that complications are developing that require prompt evaluation and intervention. In litigation, cases involving deterioration of maternal vitals focus on whether those changes were recognized, interpreted in […]
Shoulder dystocia presents as an acute obstetrical emergency requiring immediate, coordinated action, as it can lead to further birth injury. Once recognized, the interval between diagnosis and intervention becomes critical. Cases involving a delayed response to shoulder dystocia focus on whether the care team acted with the urgency and sequence required to relieve the obstruction […]
The second stage of labor—extending from full cervical dilation to delivery—is a period of increased physiological stress for both mother and fetus. Should the second stage of labor be prolonged, the clinical questions from progress to risk. At this time, medical staff may escalate by considering a cesarean section, for example. In litigation, cases involving […]