Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026
Instrumentation of Near-term Fetal Sheep for Multivariate Chronic Non-anesthetized Recordings
Published on: October 25, 2015
Midwives' cardiotocograph interpretation and documentation knowledge in a selected Gauteng hospital
Sifiso Dlamini1,2, Kagiso P Tukisi2, Roinah Ngunyulu2
1Department of Advanced Nursing Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Venda, Thohoyandou, South Africa.
Background:
Cardiotocography (CTG) is a globally used intrapartum monitoring tool to assess the foetal heart rate and the related responses to the physiology of the uterine action. The intrapartum foetal monitoring is the primary responsibility of the midwives caring for the woman in labour. Midwives' knowledge and understanding of CTG traces and interpretation ensure timely responses to pathological findings, thus ensuring positive foetal and neonatal outcomes.
Aim:
The study aimed to assess the midwives' knowledge of cardiotocograph interpretation and documentation in a selected hospital in Gauteng.
Setting:
The data were collected in a selected secondary hospital, a referral hospital for the midwife-led obstetric units and district hospitals in the Gauteng province.
Methods:
The study employed a quantitative retrospective research design, utilising a checklist to analyse patients' past medical records - this retrospective analysis aimed to evaluate midwives' knowledge in interpreting CTG.
Results:
A review of 336 CTG case records analysed five criteria: baseline heart rate, variability, decelerations, accelerations, and overall trace assessment. Significant discrepancies in record-keeping were found between midwives and researchers. Researchers maintained complete records and interpretations for all criteria, whereas midwives exhibited considerable gaps, ranging from 31% to 100% across the CTG criteria.
Conclusion:
Analysis indicates a substantial gap in CTG documentation by midwives compared to researchers.
Contribution:
Midwives exhibiting significant data omissions that may affect intrapartum care quality and clinical decisions.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Guidelines for Nursing Documentation I
Factual:
The following points emphasize the significance of upholding accurate and unbiased documentation in healthcare.
01:26Guidelines for Nursing Documentation II
Timely documentation is crucial to ensure continuity of care for patients. Any delays in recording or reporting medical information can result in medical errors and even adverse patient outcomes. From medication administration to diagnostic test results, every detail must be accurately and promptly documented to provide the best possible care for patients.
01:23Methods of Documentation V: CBE
In CBE, healthcare professionals establish predefined standards of practice that define what constitutes...
01:15Methods of Documentation VI: Case Management Model
For example, a patient with a chronic illness...
01:28Formats for Nursing Documentation
Nursing Assessment Form:
• A nursing assessment form is a foundational document that captures detailed patient data from physical assessments and nursing histories.
• It includes patient demographics, medical history, current medications, vital...
01:26Cardiac Catheterization IV: Nursing Management