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Antepartum physiologic monitors designed for continuous measurement and display of information at a central station. This information includes fetus status, fetal heart rate (FHR), other fetal cardiac parameters, and fetal movement and development, as well as the mother\'s uterine contractions. These measurements are taken from a distant location through a point-to-point radio or other appropriate communication link (i.e., telemetric). These monitors typically consist of a main unit clipped to the patient\'s gown or carried in a pouch and include electronic circuits that can process signals from noninvasive sensors (e.g., electrodes) placed on the surface of the mother\'s abdomen and a pocket-sized, battery-powered transmitter. The monitor also includes a receiver that is integral or associated to the central station where the information is displayed. Telemetry antepartum monitors are intended for use at doctors\' offices, clinics, and at home prior to the beginning of labor (i.e., antepartum). Hard-wired bedside fetal antepartum monitors are also available.
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