process of labor and birth - OB exam 2

What is the key distinction between true labor and false labor?

Progressive cervical change.

Define 'lightening' as a sign of approaching labor.

The presenting part moves lower into the pelvis, easing breathing.

What are the five Ps of labor?

Powers, Passage, Passenger, Position, Psychology.

What are the primary powers in labor?

Uterine contractions that cause cervical effacement and dilation.

What are the four characteristics used to describe uterine contractions?

Frequency, duration, intensity, and resting tone.

What is cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD)?

When the fetal presenting part cannot fit through the pelvis.

Why is the side-lying position useful during labor?

Avoids major blood vessel compression and addresses concerning FHR patterns.

What does fetal lie describe?

How the fetal spine relates to the maternal spine.

What is the most favorable fetal attitude for birth?

Flexion, with the chin toward the chest.

In the fetal position abbreviation LOA, what does 'O' stand for?

Occiput (landmark for vertex presentation).

How is Gravida (G) defined?

Total number of pregnancies, including the current pregnancy.

How is Para (P) defined?

Number of pregnancies reaching the specified viability threshold.

What are the three components assessed in a cervical examination?

Dilation, effacement, and station.

What does a negative station indicate during a cervical exam?

The presenting part is above the maternal ischial spines.

What is the immediate nursing priority after membranes rupture with a high head?

Assess the fetal heart rate for cord compression or prolapse.

When is Group B Streptococcus (GBS) screening typically performed?

At 36 0/7 through 37 6/7 weeks.

What is the usual first-line medication for intrapartum GBS prophylaxis?

Penicillin G.

What is the correct sequence of the cardinal movements of labor?

Engagement, descent, flexion, internal rotation, extension, external rotation, expulsion.

What are the three phases of the first stage of labor?

Latent, active, and transition.

During which stage and phase of labor does a patient experience 8 cm dilation and an urge to push?

First stage, transition phase.

When does the second stage of labor begin and end?

Begins at complete dilation (10 cm) and ends at birth.

What are the clinical signs of placental separation in the third stage of labor?

Lengthening umbilical cord, gush of blood, and rising uterus.

What is the primary maternal risk monitored closely during the fourth stage of labor?

Postpartum hemorrhage.

Why can a full bladder increase the risk of postpartum hemorrhage?

It displaces the uterus, preventing it from contracting firmly.