Journal & Resources
Pennsylvania Patient Safety Advisory
December 16, 2009, Vol. 6, Suppl 1.
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Reviews & Analyses
Medication Errors in Labor and Delivery: Reducing Maternal and Fetal Harm
Practitioners who work in labor and delivery units may administer a variety of medications during the birthing process that, when used in error, may adversely affect both the mother and the fetus. In events reported to the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority, the predominant medication error types associated with the labor and delivery unit were dose-omission errors and wrong-drug errors.
Preventing Maternal and Neonatal Harm during Vacuum-Assisted Vaginal Delivery
While vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery is viewed as a safe alternative to forceps deliveries, there are known maternal and fetal risks associated with vacuum devices, including maternal perineal injury and fetal cranial hemorrhages.
Neonatal Complications: Recognition and Prompt Treatment of Shoulder Dystocia
Although it is difficult to accurately predict or prevent shoulder dystocia, delivering healthcare providers can be prepared when this obstetric emergency occurs.
From the Database
Data Snapshot: Maternal Complications
A search of the Pennsylvania Patient Safety Authority's reporting system database results in identification of 256 reports of maternal complications causing harm to mothers.