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Intermittent Auscultation Simulation-Based Education

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Intermittent Auscultation Simulation-Based Education

Text lesson

Intermittent auscultation (IA) is a method that uses periodic listening and counting of the fetal heart rate (FHR) to assess fetal wellbeing.

Text lesson

Many hospitals are increasing their use of IA as part of efforts to reduce cesarean birth rates in low-risk labors.

Text lesson

Intermittent auscultation is an important assessment tool, and a promising strategy to reduce cesarean birth rates.

About the course:

Intermittent auscultation (IA) promotes freedom of movement and is an evidence-based standard of care for fetal assessment during low-risk labor and childbirth. Research shows increased use of IA can support efforts to safely reduce cesarean birth rates. Despite its importance, many perinatal clinicians lack the training and confidence to safely perform and interpret IA. The Institute for Perinatal Quality Improvement (PQI) developed this program for nurses, midwives, and physicians attending low-risk labors. 

At the completion of the training, the learner will:

  • identify the benefits of intermittent auscultation compared with continuous electronic fetal monitoring
  • demonstrate auscultation and interpret fetal heart rate baseline, accelerations, and decelerations
  • describe how to distinguish between maternal and fetal heart rate during intermittent auscultation

This 45–60-minute online program provides interactive, simulation-based training, and competency assessment designed to improve nurses', midwives', and physicians' IA usage and interpretation skills. This education includes:

  • evidence related to the use of intermittent auscultation
  • correct technique to perform IA effectively
  • IA Practice Guide for interpretation and management of IA findings
  • simulated IA practice scenarios

Acknowledgements

Authors: Amy Romano, MBA, MSN, CNM & Debra Bingham, DrPH, RN, FAAN

Clinical Reviewer of version 3.0: 

Renee Byfield, MS, RN, FNP, C-EFM

Sally Robertson, MS, BSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM, C-ONQS, NEA-BC - reviewed the update to how to assess fetal heart rate baseline.

Narration: Amy Romano, MBA, MSN, CNM

Clinical Reviewer of version 2.0:

Jean Salera-Vieira, DNP, APRN-CNS, RNC

Audio/Visual Production Support: Angela Graham and Sean O'Brien

This nursing continuing professional development activity was approved by the Northeast Multistate Division, an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation. 

CNE Approval Time Period: May 20, 2024 through May 20, 2026.

Completion of the program with 100% correct responses to quiz questions is required for contact hours. The learner may re-attempt questions without penalty until the correct answer is chosen.

No individuals in a position to control content for this activity has any relevant financial relationships to declare.

Copyright Information and Disclaimer

The Institute for Perinatal Quality Improvement (PQI) owns the copyright for the Intermittent Auscultation (IA) Web-Based Education and Simulation Module – All Rights Reserved. Those who purchase access to the IA Module for Individual Use Only are agreeing to not share the materials with others. The Institute for Perinatal Quality Improvement (PQI) also offers group sales for institutional use by hospitals and facilities for the purpose of training perinatal teams. These products are for educational purposes only. Clinicians need to make all patient care decisions based on their own assessments, their knowledge, and the individual needs of the patients that they are caring for. PQI has sought to ensure that accurate information is presented and to describe generally accepted practices. However, PQI is not responsible for errors or omissions or for any consequences from application of the information in this resource and makes no warranty expressed or implied with respect to the contents of this resource and materials. Click here for our full legal statement. Email info@perinatalQI.org if you have any questions about this education.

About the Teacher

Amy Romano

Authors: Amy Romano, MBA, MSN, CNM & Debra Bingham, DrPH, RN, FAANClinical Reviewer of version 3.0: Renee Byfield, MS, RN, FNP, C-EFMSally Robertson, MS, BSN, RNC-OB, C-EFM, C-ONQS, NEA-BC - reviewed the update to how to assess fetal heart rate baseline.Narration: Amy Romano, MBA, MSN, CNMClinical Reviewer of version 2.0:Jean Salera-Vieira, DNP, APRN-CNS, RNCAudio/Visual Production Support: Angela Graham and Sean O'Brien