Risk management and electronic fetal monitoring: Decreasing risk of adverse outcomes and liability exposure

Electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) has the potential to promote fetal health and improve neonatal status at birth; however, EFM as a stand-alone tool i s ineffective in avoiding preventable adverse outcomes. It is effective onl y when used in accordance with published standards and guidelines by profes sionals skilled in correct interpretation and when appropriate timely inter vention is based on that interpretation. Interpretation and intervention ar e best accomplished as a collaborative perinatal team rather than individua l activity. Only in these circumstances can EFM optimally contribute to fet al well-being and subsequent neonatal health. Risk management strategies to decrease potential liability ate presented that can be accomplished with c areful planning and collaboration among perinatal team members.