Comparison of neonatal outcomes and intrapartum events in full term vaginal deliveries conducted by staff versus resident physicians

OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to compare the neonatal outcomes and intrapartum events conducted by staff versus resident physicians in full term vaginal deliveries. METHODS We divided study population (n = 5,007) into two groups: staff versus resident physicians. These two groups were sub-divided; faculty versus fellow and senior versus junior resident, respectively. The maternal characteristics, neonatal outcomes including Apgar score, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit and umbilical arterial pH and intrapartum event which was defined as the occurrence of shoulder dystocia and vacuum delivery were also investigated. RESULTS There was no difference in neonatal outcomes between two groups. The group delivered by staff had a higher rate of nulliparity, large for gestational age and intrapartum events than the resident physician group. The subgroup analysis revealed a higher rate of vacuum delivery in the group delivered by faculty and senior members than the group delivered by fellows and junior members. CONCLUSION There was no significant difference in neonatal outcomes between the two groups; staff versus resident physicians in full term vaginal deliveries in low-risk pregnant women. Also, experienced obstetricians might tend to participate in difficult labors and would prefer applying vacuum compared to the obstetricians with fewer experiences.