3. DEFNITION
The partograph is a graphic
representation used to assess the
progress of labor and to identify
when intervention is necessary.
4. A partograph is used to record all observations made on a woman
in labour .
The central feature of this is , graph, where dilatation of the cervix
is plotted by assessing the vaginal examination.
By noting the rate of cervical dilatation, it is possible to identify
women whose labours are abnormally slow and who require special
attention.
The partograph is used to plot following parameters for the
progress of labour; cervical dilatation , descent of the fetal , and
uterine contractions.
5.
6.
7. It is also used for monitoring fetal conditions with the following
parameters fetal heart rate , membranes and liquor and moulding
of fetal skull.
Additionally , the partograph can be used to monitor maternal
conditions – pulse , blood pressure, temperature, urine, drugs, IV
fluids, and oxytocin.
Vaginal examination is generally done every 2-4 hours . Uterine
activity and the heart rate of fetus is assessed every 15minutes.
The findings are recorded on the graph.
8. BENEFITS OF USING THE PARTOGRAPH
Effective means of recording progress of labour.
Transfer of information becomes easy when labor status
normal.
Provides the opportunity for early identification of deviations
from normal.
It serves as a visual means of recording all observations and
includes a pictorial record of the rate of cervical dilatation.
It saves the timing of the staff, which can be wasted in long
writings.
9. It is the diagramatic representation of the dilatation of the cervix
charted against the hours in labour
During the first stage of labour, monitoring of mother and fetus is
very important to assure the well being of both. There are some
significant factors which should be considered during this period.
Urine testing of the mother is done for gulcose, proteins, and
ketones.
Vital signs of the mother are assessed at regular intervals. Pulse rate
can be increased during this stage. Increased metabolism may lead
to increase in respiration. During contractions, blood pressure also
increased.
10. One should look for bladder distention. A distended bladder can cause
obstruction in labour. So, the bladder must emptied every 2-3 minutes.
Mother may feel tired exhausted. Her general condition should be
monitored to look for signs of fatigue.
Gastric empting is prolonged during this period . So, hydration should
be maintained by fluids.
Fetal lie, presentation, position and attitude should be assessed.
Fetal heart rate also be monitored regularly, either externally (by
electronic monitoring) or internally (by scalp electrodes).
