Mercy Normal Labor Part 2

A series of flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts related to normal labor processes and signs, designed to aid in exam preparation.

Pre-labor signs

Signs that indicate the onset of labor is approaching, including lightening, low back ache, vaginal discharge, and urinary frequency.

False labor

Labor characterized by no changes in the cervix, irregular contractions, and discomfort primarily in the front.

True labor

Labor that involves cervical dilation and effacement, along with regular and increasingly intense contractions.

Stage I: Latent phase

The early part of labor where the cervix dilates from 0-3 cm and contractions are mild to moderate.

Stage I: Active phase

The phase of labor where the cervix dilates from 4-7 cm, with moderate to strong contractions and the mother may be admitted.

Stage I: Transition phase

The last phase of Stage I labor involving strong contractions and complete dilation from 8-10 cm.

Stage II: Pushing stage

The stage of labor where the mother actively pushes to deliver the baby.

Stage III: Placental stage

The stage of labor involving the delivery of the placenta after the baby is born.

FHR Monitoring Guidelines

Guidelines for monitoring fetal heart rate during labor, including continuous monitoring upon admission and intervals based on risk factors.

Amniotic Membrane Rupture

The breaking of the amniotic sac, which can be spontaneous or artificial, resulting in fluid leakage.

Prolapsed Cord Management

Management technique for prolapsed umbilical cord, including positioning the mother and preparing for delivery.

Cardinal Movements

The series of movements the fetus makes to navigate the birth canal, including engagement, descent, flexion, and rotation.

Nesting

A burst of energy some women experience before labor, often associated with preparing for the baby.

Braxton-Hicks contractions

Irregular and typically painless contractions that can occur in late pregnancy, often called false labor.

Cervical changes

Physical changes of the cervix during pregnancy, indicating readiness for labor such as dilation and effacement.

Pushing techniques

Methods a mother may use during delivery, including breath-holding and open glottis to facilitate birth.

Fetal distress

A condition indicating the fetus may be in trouble, often monitored through fetal heart rate tracing.

Positioning for labor

Various maternal positions utilized during labor to aid in comfort and facilitate delivery.

Fontanelle assessment

Examination of the baby’s soft spots on the head to assess positioning during labor.

APGAR score

A quick test performed on a newborn at 1 and 5 minutes after birth to determine their physical condition.

Maternal assessments

Evaluations performed on the mother during labor to ensure her and her baby's safety and well-being.

Vaginal discharge

Fluid expelled from the vagina that may increase in quantity as labor approaches.

Urinary frequency

The need to urinate more often, which can occur as labor approaches due to positional changes of the baby.

Transition phase symptoms

Common symptoms experienced during the transition phase of labor, such as nausea, irritability, and shakes.

IV fluids during labor

Intravenous fluids administered to maintain hydration and support the mother during labor.

Hyperventilation in labor

Rapid breathing patterns that may occur during labor, often associated with anxiety and discomfort.