ABSTRACT
The ideal management of a potential emergency situation is in its avoidance. Although it may not always be possible to anticipate every emergency, it is important that every midwife is competent to recognize risk factors promptly during all stages of the childbirth process and refer these potentially high risk cases to her medical colleagues in order to reduce the occurrence
An emergency is an occurrence of a serious and dangerous nature, developing suddenly and unexpectedly, demanding immediate attention. Although the actual emergency itself will occur without any warning, in some cases, pre-existing risk factors will be present. Depending on the type of emergency, when it occurs and the environment in which it occurs, will determine to what extent the health and well-being of the woman and/or fetus/neonate will be affected. This may not only involve the physical health, but also
of an emergency. The midwife is also responsible to ensure her documentation accurately reflects the course of events and actions taken in all emergencies associated with childbirth. If notes are written retrospectively, this fact should be recorded when documenting the date and time of the events.
