Monitoring Epidural Analgesia in the Parturient

Abstract

Appropriate monitoring during obstetric epidural analgesia consists of:

1. Indirect BP and pulse monitoring before epidural insertion, frequently after every dose, and intermittently thereafter.

2. The aspiration test before all injections.

3. Frequent clinical monitoring for signs of intravascular injection during administration of small intermittent doses (not more than 3–5 ml at a time).

4. Frequent clinical monitoring for sympathetic, sensory and motor signs indicating upward extension of the block.

5. Frequent monitoring of the fetal heart rate (FHR) and other signs of fetal welfare.

In many instances continuous tocogram with fetal heart rate (CTG) monitoring is useful. We do not believe CTG use is mandatory for epidural analgesia in the uncomplicated pregnancy, but we do advocate that it (and other appropriate fetal monitoring techniques) be used when risk factors or complications, either fetal or maternal, are present or suspected. The anaesthetist should be familiar with fetal monitoring techniques, their use and interpretation. He or she should be prepared to recommend their use when it is considered appropriate to do so.