Pioneered in the late 1960s, a fetal spiral electrode (FSE) is a form of internal fetal monitoring used during the labor and delivery process that is typically only necessary when external fetal monitoring proves inadequate.

Fetal Scalp Electrode Placement Guidelines for use and initiation of fetal scalp electrodes (FSE) to monitor fetal heart rates. Purpose: To obtain an accurate tracing of fetal heart rate, variability and periodic changes during labor. Only MDs, CNMs, and competency verified L&D RNs may perform insertion. Warnings:

Placement of an internal electrode requires that the amniotic membranes (the fluid-filled sac that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy) be broken, and the cervix be dilated (opened) several centimeters to allow contact with the fetal scalp or other body part.

A fetal scalp electrode or FSE is a spiral wire that can be placed on the scalp of the fetus to monitor their heart rate and ensure their well-being. Placing a fetal scalp electrode is a crucial part of directly monitoring the fetus inside the womb (internal fetal monitoring).

This unit has an overall goal of helping people learn and improve upon skills required for placement of the fetal scalp electrode (FSE) and intrauterine pressure catheter (IUPC). Both of these tools are commonly utilized by the obstetrical practitioner to obtain valuable information during labor management, particularly when common ...