UNIT 2 (Lesson 4): Use of Partograph PDF

UNIT 2 (Lesson 4): Use of Partograph Here are simplified notes based on the module about the Use of the Partograph: What is a Partograph? Partograph (or partogram) is a simple, inexpensive chart used during labor to track:...

UNIT 2 (Lesson 4): Use of Partograph Here are simplified notes based on the module about the Use of the Partograph: What is a Partograph? Partograph (or partogram) is a simple, inexpensive chart used during labor to track: 1. How labor is progressing. 2. The condition of both mother and baby. 3. The outcome of labor. It helps detect issues like slow labor or fetal distress early so that action can be taken. The WHO recommends using it routinely in labor management to prevent complications. Why is the Partograph Important? Tracks everything at a glance: You can see how the labor is progressing and spot issues early. Prevents complications: Studies show fewer problems with prolonged labor when partographs are used. Four components of a partograph: 1. Progress of labor 2. Assessment of maternal conditions UNIT 2 (Lesson 4): Use of Partograph 1  3. Assessment of fetal conditions 4. Outcome of labor Vaginal Bleeding 0 — no bleeding + — scanty ++ — moderate +++ — profuse Amniotic Fluid I — Intact membranes C — Clear amniotic fluid A — Absent or no amniotic fluid M — Meconium stained B — Blood stained Oxytocin 10 units Injected intramuscularly in the deltoid area within 1 minute after delivery of baby This is given to strengthen uterine contractions for the purpose of: Facilitating prompt separation of the placenta Preventing excessive blood loss during the postpartal period UNIT 2 (Lesson 4): Use of Partograph 2  Main Components of the Partograph: 1. Progress of Labor: Tracks cervical dilation (opening of the cervix) against time. Uses an Alert Line and Action Line to show if labor is normal or delayed. Alert Line: If crossed, labor is slow. Action Line: Critical delay, requiring immediate intervention. 2. Maternal Condition: Records mother's vital signs (blood pressure, pulse, temperature). Also tracks contractions, urine output, and any bleeding. 3. Fetal Condition: Monitors fetal heart rate (FHR). Records the state of the amniotic fluid (clear, meconium-stained, etc.). 4. Outcome of Labor: Records details like when the placenta is delivered and if oxytocin was given to help contractions. How to Use the Partograph: Start using it at active labor (when cervix is 4 cm dilated and there are regular contractions). Plot cervical dilation every time an internal exam is done (usually every 4 hours). If the plot crosses the Alert Line, assess why labor is slow. If it crosses the Action Line, intervene immediately or refer to a hospital if in a low-resource setting. What to Do if Labor is Abnormal: If crossing the Alert Line: UNIT 2 (Lesson 4): Use of Partograph 3  Reassess the mother and fetus more frequently. Encourage the mother to move, empty her bladder, or change position. If crossing the Action Line: Take urgent action or transfer to a hospital, especially if the birth is not imminent. Extra Tips: Only plot cervical dilation starting from active labor (4 cm or more). Never wait for the line to cross into critical zones before acting. For early labor (less than 4 cm dilation), the mother can be sent home to wait until active labor begins. UNIT 2 (Lesson 4): Use of Partograph 4