The focus of the third edition of Best Practice in Labour and Delivery is on improvement of technical and non-technical skills, multidisciplinary team working, high quality training and audit with the goal of improving safety and quality of intrapartum care. The editor and authors from a range of international backgrounds have decades of hands-on experience in managing high risk labour wards and promoting both multidisciplinary working and high-quality training. The latest evidence from the Cochrane library and the WHO, NICE and RCOG guidelines have been incorporated into chapters spanning the stages of labour and delivery and the complications that may arise. Chapters also provide practical advice on risk management, triage and prioritisation, and non-technical skills such as leadership and decision making. The well-illustrated book is an essential read for practicing obstetricians, trainees, midwives, neonatologists, anaesthetists and obstetric physicians.

‘A mother and baby, or babies, will go through what may arguably be the toughest journey of their lives during labour and childbirth. The birth passage is short, but the list of potential problems that could occur in this journey is long. When a problem occurs, what one doesn’t often have is time. The ticking clock often determines the outcome. Having clear knowledge about what to do, how to do, and when to do can make all the difference. Sound knowledge about labour and delivery is at the core of effective care, and this book has a central contribution to make in getting you ready to face the delivery suite with confidence and purpose. The book provides clear information, guidance and instructions, all based on sound evidence and current consensus. Make time for this book; it will help you, your team, mothers and babies.’

Arri Coomarasamy - OBE, MBChB, MD, FRCOG, FMedSci, University of Oxford