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Findings from the NHS early notification scheme¹ may be grim reading. But we are quite certain this will be a very effective driving force in reducing avoidable severe brain injury in babies in years to come. The headline message is that incorrect interpretation of fetal monitoring is the primary force in delaying the need for a timely intervention. We believe that whilst this may be true, somehow , and for reasons unknown, there is often inertia in taking decisive action. In marked contrast to the very rapid response a cardiac arrest call will give.
It is traditional practice when a fetal problem is identified, a senior obstetrician has to be asked if an emergency delivery may be allowed. We suggest that the correct question to ask the senior obstetrician is “Are there any reasons NOT to undertake an emergency delivery ?” We believe asking the question of what to do in this way will very simply accelerate decision making and delivery. In situations that are very time sensitive
Taking action when required
Findings from the NHS early notification scheme¹ may be grim reading. But we are quite certain this will be a very effective driving force in reducing avoidable severe brain injury in babies in years to come. The headline message is that incorrect interpretation of fetal monitoring is the primary force in delaying the need for a timely intervention. We believe that whilst this may be true, somehow , and for reasons unknown, there is often inertia in taking decisive action. In marked contrast to the very rapid response a cardiac arrest call will give.
It is traditional practice when a fetal problem is identified, a senior obstetrician has to be asked if an emergency delivery may be allowed. We suggest that the correct question to ask the senior obstetrician is “Are there any reasons NOT to undertake an emergency delivery ?” We believe asking the question of what to do in this way will very simply accelerate decision making and delivery. In situations that are very time sensitive
1 NHS Resolution. The Early Notification scheme progress report: collaboration and improved experience for families. Sep 2019.
https://resolution.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/NHS-Resolution-Earl...
Competing interests: No competing interests