EXTERNAL OBSTETRIC EXAMINATION FOR ANTENATAL TRIAGE IN RESOURCE-CONSTRAINED SETTINGS: A CASE-BASED IMRAD REVIEW
Keywords:
antenatal triage, external obstetric examination, fetal lie, referral, case-based obstetricsAbstract
External obstetric examination is a frontline triage method where imaging and
specialist access are limited. Objective: This article develops a case-based framework for using
abdominal palpation, fundal-height interpretation and fetal auscultation to identify referral needs.
Methods: International recommendations and diagnostic literature were reviewed and translated into
practical triage categories. Results: Findings can be grouped into normal, uncertain and danger
patterns. Discussion: The method is useful only when paired with referral pathways and
documentation. Conclusion: External examination is not a substitute for ultrasound; it is a practical
filter that can reduce delayed recognition of risk.
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