Fundal palpation (postpartum) Description After birth, the uterus gradually shrinks and descends into its prepregnancy position in the pelvis; termed involution. Palpation of the uterine fundus postpartum helps to determine…
Fetal heart rate assessment Description This noninvasive method of obtaining fetal heart rate (FHR) involves the use of a Doppler ultrasound device or fetoscope. FHR is detectable at 12 weeks’…
External electronic fetal monitoring Description External electronic fetal monitoring is an indirect, noninvasive procedure involving the use of two devices, an ultrasound transducer and a tocotransducer, placed on the patient’s…
Emergency birth Description Emergency delivery, the unplanned birth of a neonate outside of a health care facility, may occur when labor progresses very quickly or when circumstances prevent the woman…
Circumcision Description Circumcision is the removal of the penile foreskin and is thought to promote a clean glans and to minimize the risk of phimosis (tightening of the foreskin) in…
Breast pumps Description By creating suction, manual and electric breast pumps stimulate lactation. A breast pump is indicated for a mother who wants to maintain milk production while she and…
Breast-feeding assistance Description Breast-feeding is the safest and least expensive way to provide complete infant nourishment. Components of successful and satisfying breast-feeding include proper breast care, normal milk flow, and…
Bottle-feeding Description When a neonate requires a special diet or when a mother can’t or chooses not to breast-feed, formula is the next-best food source. Formula preparations supply needed vitamins…
Apgar scoring Description Quantification of neonate’s status is based on observations of neonate’s appearance and behavior. The scoring evaluates neonatal heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and color….
