Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine
Volume 18, Issue 6 , Pages 150-154, June 2008

Prioritization in the labour suite

Srinivas Rao Amirchetty MB BS BSc MRCOG is a Senior Specialist Registrar in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK

Jane Rutherford MD MRCOG is a Consultant Obstetrician at Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham, UK

Abstract 

Few areas in hospitals boast the range of clinical activity in the labour suite. Effective intrapartum care is based on achieving safe outcome for mothers and babies, with timely mobilization of resources to provide care for women who need it most. Coordination and effective communication between health care professionals is essential in promoting best practice. Successive maternal mortality reports have recommended rigorous consultant input in minimizing adverse events, guiding juniors, and employing sharp decision-making. Effective time management, a team-working approach, detailed clinical handovers, and regular ward rounds are important in achieving a safe environment. The skills of prioritizing patient care through appropriate delegation to team members can help to create an environment in which the hazards of childbirth can be managed and excellence in clinical care can flourish.

Keywords: delivery suite, obstetric, pregnancy, prioritization

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PII: S1751-7214(08)00077-8

doi:10.1016/j.ogrm.2008.04.002

Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine
Volume 18, Issue 6 , Pages 150-154, June 2008