Universal Cord pH sampling

By Alison Shaw | September 22, 2020

During the latest BetterObs Management Committee meeting (August 2020), a discussion was held regarding the viability and need to do Universal Umbilical Artery Cord blood sampling. (currently only done for NVD’s, emergency CS’s and elective deliveries for “compromised” babies). This matter was referred to the BetterObs Scientific Committee for review and BetterObs now recommends that cord pH sampling is done for ALL deliveries (including elective CS’s). The big advantage will be for the neonates where the pH values will help the paediatricians in managing the neonates even more efficiently. (see the BetterObs Scientific Committee document attached). The universal cord pH sampling will start on 1 October 2020.