Elective Induction vs. Spontaneous Labor

Abstract

Record ID: 119

Type: Poster Presentation (in-person)

Advisor: Caroline Morrison

Abstract: The practice of elective induction of labor is becoming more routine among pregnant women, but has some potential harmful implications. The lack of education among labor and delivery nurses inhibits expecting mothers to make informed choices regarding their birth plan because they are not properly educated on the adverse events that may accompany elective induction of labor. The purpose of our education project was to understand the literature on elective induction of labor and educate labor and delivery nurses on the negative implications that may be associated with elective induction of labor in term, uncomplicated pregnancies versus spontaneous labor. The goal of our research is to determine if educating nurses will decrease the maternal decision of choosing elective induction of labor, thus decreasing the complications associated with it. We are presenting an educational PowerPoint emphasizing the complications that are associated with elective inductions in term, uncomplicated pregnancies to a group of labor and delivery nurses at Fort Hamilton Hospital. A pre and post-test will be administered to allow for analysis of the knowledge gained through the presentation. Results are pending, but we anticipate an overall increase in knowledge among the nurses in maternal and fetal complications associated with elective induction of labor. This will allow for better informed maternal decisions, and therefore, decreased maternal and fetal complications.