Indications for induction of labor10
MATERNAL CONDITIONS
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Discharge from triage
Give kick-count instructions. When discharge is appropriate, women should be instructed to monitor and document fetal movements7 using one of several methods to conduct a “kick count.” In general, patients should follow kick-count instructions given by their own obstetrician. One of the simplest methods is to count the number of movements over a defined period of time. For example, instruct the patient to monitor fetal activity 30 to 60 minutes after breakfast and again after supper by lying on her left side and counting fetal movements for 1 hour. If the number of movements is less than half her usual count, she should inform her physician. Another option is instructing the patient to expect a minimum of 5 to 10 fetal movements in 1 hour and have her notify her physician if she feels less than 5.
When discharge is appropriate, women should be instructed to monitor and document fetal movements.
Final recommendations. To improve outcomes in obstetric triage, the care provider should make sure the patient understands her clinical situation and that all her concerns have been completely, satisfactorily, and properly addressed. Upon discharge, the patient should have a follow-up outpatient visit already scheduled at the physician’s office and be adequately educated about her condition. She should feel free to call back if she fails to improve or worsens or if any new signs or symptoms appear.
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