ABSTRACT
An epidural can be sited at any point during established labour as long as the anaesthetist is able to carry out the procedure and the woman is able to maintain the required position for long enough. It is also possible that an epidural could be sited prior to the commencement of an oxytocin infusion for induction of labour, although in these cases it can be very difficult to ascertain whether the epidural is working effectively until contractions are occurring. It is also recommended that women with high BMIs have an anaesthetic review during the antenatal period and have an epidural sited early. The blood pressure must be taken every 5 minutes for at least 20 minutes with the test and any subsequent top-up doses of anaesthetic. The anaesthetist should complete an epidural chart and the procedure and drugs administered should be accurately recorded.
