fetal scalp electrode
An internal monitoring device attached directly to the fetal scalp to provide continuous fetal heart rate monitoring. Abbreviated as FSE in clinical documentation.
Full Definition
A spiral electrode that is screwed into the fetal scalp to provide direct, continuous monitoring of the fetal heart rate during labor. The fetal scalp electrode (FSE) is used when external monitoring is inadequate due to maternal obesity, fetal movement, or other factors that interfere with external transducer placement. Application requires rupture of membranes and cervical dilation of at least 2-3 centimeters. The electrode provides a more accurate fetal heart rate tracing than external monitoring but carries small risks of infection and fetal injury. Contraindications include maternal infections such as HIV, hepatitis, or herpes simplex virus.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify internal vs. external monitoring in documentation. FSE is acceptable abbreviation after first use.
In Context
- "An FSE was placed due to poor signal quality with external monitoring." — Labor progress note
- "The fetal scalp electrode revealed subtle variable decelerations not visible on external tracing." — Delivery documentation