Which assessment is specifically recommended immediately before vaginal examination when assessing descent on the partograph?

The slides state that descent should be assessed by abdominal examination immediately before vaginal examination, using the rule of fifths. This gives an abdominal estimate of how much of the fetal head remains palpable above the symphysis pubis. **Key takeaway:** Assess descent abdominally before performing the vaginal examination.\n\n**Glossary:** **Rule of fifths**: estimation of the palpable fetal head above the symphysis pubis.