Comprehensive Nursing Care During Labor and Birth Stages

What marks the beginning of the first stage of labor?

The first stage of labor begins with regular uterine contractions.

What is the end point of the first stage of labor?

The first stage ends with full cervical effacement and dilation.

What are the three phases of the first stage of labor according to the traditional definition?

Latent phase (0 to 3 cm), Active phase (4 to 7 cm), Transition (8 to 10 cm).

What are the two phases of the first stage of labor according to the new definition?

Latent Phase (onset of labor to beginning of active phase) and Active Phase (greatest rate of cervical dilation from 6 cm to 10 cm).

What is Friedman's Labor Curve used for?

It shows the average dilatation curve for Nulliparous women and the relationship between descent and dilation.

What is the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA)?

It mandates that a woman is considered to be in true labor until a qualified provider determines otherwise.

What are some key components of the assessment during the first stage of labor?

Determination of true vs. false labor, assessment of contractions, cervix, and fetus.

What factors are considered during the admission assessment for labor?

Prenatal data, interview, spontaneous rupture of membranes, psychosocial factors, and cultural factors.

What are the nursing interventions during the first stage of labor?

General hygiene, nutrient and fluid intake, elimination, ambulation, and positioning.

What defines the second stage of labor?

It begins with full dilation and ends with the birth of the infant, characterized by the urge to push.

What are the two phases of the second stage of labor?

Latent phase (delayed pushing) and Active phase (pushing with urge to bear down).

What is the Ferguson reflex?

The urge to 'bear down' during the second stage of labor.

What is the significance of crowning during labor?

Crowning indicates that the baby's head is visible at the vaginal opening, often accompanied by intense pressure.

What are the types of perineal lacerations related to childbirth?

First degree (skin and mucous membrane), Second degree (fascia and muscles), Third degree (external anal sphincter), Fourth degree (through rectal mucosa).

What is the third stage of labor?

It is the stage from the birth of the baby until the placenta is expelled.

What are signs that the placenta has separated during the third stage of labor?

Sudden gush of dark blood, apparent lengthening of the umbilical cord, and vaginal fullness.

What is the focus of nursing care during the fourth stage of labor?

Monitoring uterine position and firmness, assessing lochia, vital signs, and promoting comfort.

What are some risk signs to monitor for in the fourth stage of labor?

Hypotension, tachycardia, excessive bleeding, and a noncontracting uterus.

What is the purpose of postanesthesia recovery (PAR) for women after childbirth?

To monitor recovery from anesthesia and ensure stability in vital signs and consciousness.

What immediate care should be provided to a newborn after birth?

Ensure airway, warmth, and identification of the newborn.

What is the Apgar score?

A quick assessment tool used to evaluate the health of a newborn immediately after birth.

What is delayed cord clamping?

A practice where the umbilical cord is not clamped immediately after birth, allowing for continued blood flow to the newborn.

What is the significance of skin-to-skin care after birth?

It fosters infant attachment and regulates the newborn's temperature and heart rate.

What are the cultural considerations in labor and delivery?

Cultural factors may influence a woman's expectations and behaviors during labor, including partner participation and communication needs.