What should be monitored in addition to fetal heart rate during labor?

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Monitoring uterine contractions during labor is crucial because they are an indicator of the progress of labor and can provide insight into the effectiveness of the contractions in dilating the cervix and facilitating the descent of the fetus. Uterine contractions also play a vital role in maintaining fetal well-being; if they become too strong or too frequent, it may lead to fetal distress. Tracking the frequency, intensity, and duration of contractions helps healthcare providers assess labor progression and make informed decisions regarding interventions if necessary.

In contrast, while factors like maternal social support, fetal movements, and maternal skin temperature can be relevant to the overall care of the mother and fetus, they do not directly correlate to the immediate clinical parameters guiding labor progress and fetal well-being in the same way that monitoring uterine contractions does.

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