When should an amnioinfusion be administered?

Amnioinfusion is primarily indicated in scenarios involving cord compression. This procedure involves the introduction of a sterile fluid, typically saline, into the amniotic cavity through an intrauterine catheter. The purpose of this intervention is to relieve variable decelerations in the fetal heart rate that occur due to umbilical cord compression.

When the umbilical cord is compressed, it can lead to decreased oxygen supply to the fetus and result in distress. By increasing the volume of amniotic fluid, amnioinfusion helps cushion the cord, thus reducing the frequency and severity of the variable decelerations noted on fetal monitoring. This intervention is particularly beneficial in cases of oligohydramnios, where there is insufficient amniotic fluid.

While fetal distress could potentially be addressed in various ways depending on the underlying cause, amnioinfusion specifically targets scenarios where cord compression is the identified issue. Therefore, the administration of amnioinfusion in the context of cord compression is a targeted and effective strategy to promote fetal well-being. Routine checkups and maternal requests do not present the clinical indications necessary for such an intervention, and actions taken solely upon maternal request or for general monitoring would not align with established clinical practice for this procedure.