Monitoring Fhr With Decg; Contraindications; Preparing The Patient's Skin Prior To Placing Electrodes; Directions For Using Fetal Spiral Electrode - EDAN F9 User Manual

F9, F9 Express Fetal & Maternal Monitor User Manual

7.3 Monitoring FHR with DECG

7.3.1 Contraindications

The fetal spiral electrode can be used when amniotic membranes are adequately ruptured and
sufficient cervical dilatation is ensured. The fetal electrode tip is designed to penetrate the
epidermis of the fetus; therefore, trauma, hemorrhage and/or infection can occur. The electrode
should be used with strict adherence to aseptic technique.
The fetal spiral electrode should not be applied to the fetal face, fontanels or genitalia.
Do not apply the fetal spiral electrode when placenta previa is present; when the mother has
visible genital herpes lesions or reports symptoms of prodromal lesions; when the mother is HIV
sero-positive; when mother is a confirmed carrier of hemophilia and the fetus is affected or of
unknown status; or when it is not possible to identify fetal presenting part where application is
being considered. This method is not recommended when fetus is extremely premature, or in the
presence of a maternal infection such as Hepatitis B, Group B hemolytic strep, syphilis or
gonorrhea, unless a clear benefit to the fetus or mother can be established.

7.3.2 Preparing the Patient's Skin Prior to Placing Electrodes

The skin is a poor conductor of electricity; therefore preparation of the patient's skin is important
to facilitate good electrode contact to skin.
 Shave hair from electrode sites, if necessary.
 Wash the sites thoroughly with soap and water. (Do not use ether or pure alcohol, which will
increase skin impedance)
 Rub the skin briskly to increase capillary blood flow in the tissues.
 Remove skin scurf and grease.

7.3.3 Directions for Using Fetal Spiral Electrode

1 With the patient in the dorsal lithotomy position, perform a vaginal examination and clearly
identify the fetal presenting part.
2 Remove the spiral electrode from the package; leave the electrode wires locked in the handle
notch.
3 Gently bend the guide tube to the desired angle.
4 Hold the drive handle, ensure the spiral electrode is retracted about one inch (2.5 cm) from
the distal end of the guide tube.
5 Place the guide tube firmly against the identified presenting part.
6 Maintain pressure against the fetal presenting part with guide and drive tubes. Rotate the
drive tube by rotating the drive handle clockwise until gentle resistance is encountered.
Resistance to further rotation and recoil of the drive handle indicates that the spiral electrode
- 85 -
Fetal Monitoring