Emergency Childbirth Documentation

These flashcards focus on key vocabulary and concepts related to emergency childbirth and are designed to help review essential knowledge in this area.

True Labor

Characterized by regular contractions that increase in intensity and lead to cervical dilation.

False Labor

Irregular contractions that do not lead to cervical changes or delivery.

Braxton-Hicks Contractions

False labor contractions that can occur throughout pregnancy.

Assessment in Childbirth

Critical questions to determine if labor is occurring and its progress.

Length of Contractions

The measure of time from the start of one contraction to the start of the next.

Emergency Childbirth Management

The process of keeping the mother calm, timed contractions, and guiding delivery.

APGAR Score

A quick assessment of a newborn's health based on five criteria.

Complications During Pregnancy

Issues such as miscarriage, pre-mature labor, and ectopic pregnancies.

Ectopic Pregnancy

A pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus, often causing hemorrhaging.

Stage 1 of Labor

Preparation stage, starting at the first contraction and ending with full dilation.

Stage 2 of Labor

The delivery stage, commencing with full dilation of the cervix.

Crowning

When the baby’s head is visible during childbirth.

Visual Signs of Labor

Signs that may indicate a woman is nearing delivery, such as strong contractions.

Protective Gear in Childbirth

Items like gloves and sterile gauze that ensure safe delivery.

Counter Pressure Technique

Applying gentle pressure on the baby’s head during crowning to ease delivery.

Post-delivery Management

Actions taken immediately after birth to ensure the baby's health.

Clear Airway

The process to ensure that the newborn can breathe properly.

External Cleaning

Using gauze or suction bulbs to clear the baby's mouth and nose.

Initial Assessment of Newborn

Using the APGAR score to evaluate heart rate, color, and responsiveness.

Normal APGAR Score

A score ranging from 7 to 10, indicating the baby is in good condition.

Signs of Shock in Pregnancy

Indicators that might suggest complications such as extensive bleeding.

Ectopic Pregnancy Signs

Sharp abdominal pain, referred shoulder pain, and vaginal bleeding.

Delivery of Placenta

Occurs after the baby is born and often happens within 20 minutes.

Uterine Contractions

Key to controlling postpartum bleeding during recovery.

Knee to Chest Position

Positioning the mother to relieve pressure on the umbilical cord in prolapsed cord cases.

Multiple Births Handling

Similar to single birth but with additional precautions for heat loss.

Bloody Discharge in Labor

A potential sign indicating complications that may require immediate attention.

First Pregnancy Questions

Inquiries often made to assess the mother’s experience and potential complications.

Urge to Bear Down

The intense pressure felt during labor signaling the mother to push.

Comfort in Labor

Providing a clean, respectful environment to alleviate the mother's anxiety.

Breathing Techniques in Labor

Methods to help mothers manage pain and ensure oxygen flow.

Vital Signs Monitoring

Checking the baby's and mother's health after delivery.

Delivery Complication: Prolapsed Cord

When the umbilical cord slips ahead of the baby, risking oxygen deprivation.

Delivery Complication: Breech Birth

When a baby is positioned feet or buttocks first during delivery.

Neonate Care Post-Delivery

Immediate actions required to ensure the well-being of a newborn.

Cervical Dilation Importance

Essential measure of labor progress, impacting when to head to the hospital.

Maternal Recovery Phase

The stage following delivery, focusing on the mother’s physical stability.

Initial Baby Positioning

Placing the baby on its side on the mother's abdomen after birth.

Cord Clamping Timeframe

Waiting period before clamping the umbilical cord post-delivery.

Signs of Effective Contractions

Regular intervals, increased intensity, and reducing time between contractions.

Emergency Equipment for Childbirth

Useful items like towels, suction bulbs, and sterile gauze.

Support for the Mother During Labor

Techniques to alleviate discomfort and promote relaxation.

Signs of Premature Labor

Labor between 20-37 weeks requiring immediate medical attention.

Stage 4 of Labor

Stabilization of both mother and infant post-delivery.

Positioning for Delivery

Ensuring the mother can comfortably choose her labor position.

First Aid for Unresponsive Infant

Immediate actions such as initiating CPR if the baby is not breathing.

Appendix of Pregnancy Terms

A glossary of relevant terms associated with pregnancy and childbirth.

Postpartum Monitoring

Vigilant observation for excessive bleeding or shock after delivery.

Recovery Importance

Ensuring the mother rests and recovers effectively after childbirth.

APGAR Evaluation

Numeric scoring of five attributes to assess the newborn's overall health.

Delivery Complications to Monitor

Keep an eye on shock, excessive bleeding, and transitions in pregnancy.

Comfortable Labor Area

Creating an environment conducive to a positive childbirth experience.

Neonatal Monitoring Post-Delivery

Ongoing checks of the newborn’s vital signs and general health.

Labor Duration Guidelines

Understanding lengths and intensities indicating impending delivery.

Infection Control During Delivery

Steps to limit infection risks with sterile practices in childbirth.

Braxton-Hicks Contractions Definition

Irregular contractions that do not lead to true labor but may be confused for it.

Maternal Rest Period After Birth

Importance of ensuring the mother remains calm and recovers adequately.

Key Signs of Labor Progress

Closer, stronger contractions signaling that delivery is near.

Crowning Process Description

The final stages of delivery when the infant's head becomes visible.

Umbilical Cord Handling During Delivery

Proper techniques to manage the cord and newborn safety.

Post-Delivery Recovery Assessment

Monitoring the mother and infant for health and wellness.

Emergency Birth Protocol

Steps to take when assisting in childbirth outside a medical facility.

Suctioning for Baby Breathing

Clearing the baby's airway to facilitate breathing immediately after birth.