SURVEY OF EXPECTANT PARENTS PRESENTING FOR THE 18-20 WEEK FETAL ULTRASOUND: THEIR OPINION ON THE VIDEOTAPING ISSUE AND EXPECTATIONS OF THE SCAN

Alison L Webb DipAppSc (MRT) GradDipAppSc (Medical Ultrasonongraphy), AMS, Senior Sonographer at the Christopher Kohlenberg Department of Perinatal Ultrasound, Nepean Hospital, Penrith

Abstract
This ultrasound department does not provide a videotape of any routine ultrasounds. The reasons behind this protocol include concern that a videotape may be used as legal evidence, prudent limitation of exposure at the fetus to ultrasound, and the possibility of the sonographer being distracted. A further concern is that by providing a video service we might inadvertently promote the entertainment aspect of prenatal ultrasound rather than emphasise its medical importance.

The department undertook a survey of 150 expectant mothers arriving for their routine 18-20 week fetal anomaly scan (FAS), and as many expectant fathers who were present and willing to participate (53 agreed). It seemed paramount that expectant parents should get the opportunity to express their opinion on the videotaping issue as to date, published material has stated the opinions of ultrasound professionals and assumptions of our patients’ expectations.

Whilst it was determined that the majority of expectant parents do desire a videotape of their FAS, the majority in our catchment area are quite satisfied to receive a few still images of their baby instead of a videotape. It was also learned that the majority of expectant parents are ill-informed of the limitations of prenatal ultrasound.

Citation
Webb A. Survey of expectant parents presenting for the 18-20 week fetal ultrasound: their opinion on the videotaping issue and expectations of the scan. ASUM Bulletin 2002.2:11-15.