Maternal & Newborn Nursing Review

A set of 100 flashcards designed for nursing students to review key maternal and newborn concepts, terminologies, and processes.

Nitrazine Paper

A test used to check for rupture of membranes by assessing vaginal pH.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Irregular, infrequent, non-painful contractions often referred to as 'practice contractions'.

True Labor Contractions

Regular, painful contractions that increase in intensity and frequency.

5 P's of Labor

Passage, Passenger, placenta, Powers, Psycho-emotional state.

Latent Phase of Labor

The initial phase of labor where the cervix dilates from 0 to 3 cm.

Active Phase of Labor

The phase where the cervix dilates from 4 to 7 cm with stronger contractions.

Transition Phase of Labor

The final part of the first stage of labor, from 8 to 10 cm dilation.

Episiotomy

A surgical cut between the vagina and anus to aid delivery.

Degrees of Episiotomy

1° is skin only, 2° extends to muscle, and 3° extends to the anal sphincter.

Fetal Distress

Abnormal heart rate and decreased fetal movement requiring interventions.

Surfactant

A substance in the lungs that keeps alveoli open, crucial for preemies.

Common Delivery Medications

Includes Epidural, fentanyl, and Oxytocin used to induce labor.

Meconium Aspiration

Condition where the newborn inhales a mixture of meconium and amniotic fluid.

Lochia

The vaginal discharge after birth, composed of blood and tissue.

Cardinal Movements of Labor

The sequence of movements a baby makes to navigate through the birth canal.

Apgar Score

A quick test to assess a newborn's health immediately after birth, scored 0-10.

Pudendal Block

A local anesthetic given in the perineal area during childbirth.

Placenta

Organ providing oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and removing waste products.

Amniotic Fluid

The fluid surrounding the fetus, important for cushioning and temperature regulation.

Meconium

The first stool of a newborn, which is usually dark green and sticky.

C-Section

A surgical procedure to deliver a baby through an incision in the mother's abdomen.

Pitocin

Synthetic oxytocin used to induce labor and strengthen contractions.

VBAC

Vaginal birth after cesarean, a possible option for women after a C-section.

Internal Monitoring

Involves placement of electrodes to track fetal heart rate and contraction strength.

External Monitoring

Non-invasive method for tracking fetal heart rate and contractions through the belly.

Involution of the Uterus

The process of the uterus returning to its pre-pregnancy size after childbirth.

Laceration

A tear that occurs during childbirth, often needing suturing.

Breastfeeding Benefits

Provides optimal nutrition and maternal bonding; reduces infection risk.

Postpartum Depression Symptoms

Persistent sadness, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts affecting a mother's well-being.

Colostrum

The first milk produced after childbirth, rich in antibodies and nutrients.

Postpartum Care

Involves monitoring recovery, addressing physical and emotional health.

Kick Counts

Monitoring fetal movement as a sign of fetal well-being, with guidelines to report changes.

Fetal Heart Rate

Normal range is 110-160 bpm, monitored during labor.

Placental Barrier

Separates maternal and fetal blood, allowing nutrient and gas exchange.

Meconium-Stained Fluid

Indicates potential fetal distress if present during labor.

Tocolytics

Medications used to stop preterm labor.

Apgar Score Categories

Includes Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration.

Placenta Previa

Condition where the placenta covers the cervix; can complicate delivery.

Epidural Side Effects

May include decreased blood pressure, headache, and urinary retention.

Cord Compression Risks

Can lead to fetal distress often indicated by variable decelerations in heart rate.

Packaged Birth Plan

Document outlining parental preferences for labor and delivery.

Assessment for Infection

Includes monitoring temperature, lochia, incision site, and vital signs.

Signs of Labor

Includes regular contractions, water breaking, and back pain.

Nuchal Translucency Scan

Early ultrasound to assess for potential chromosomal abnormalities.

Genetic Counseling

Recommended for families with a history of genetic disorders.

Cervical Change Monitoring

Assessing effacement and dilation during labor.

Perinatal Mental Health

Focus on emotional well-being during and after pregnancy.

Preterm Labor Signs

Regular contractions before 37 weeks, requiring immediate medical attention.

Positive Signs of Pregnancy

Include detecting fetal heartbeat, ultrasound visualizing fetus.

Common Pregnancy Discomforts

Acknowledge symptoms like nausea, back pain, and edema.

Health Counseling During Pregnancy

Includes lifestyle changes, prenatal education, and warning signs.

Fundal Height Measurement

Tracks fetal growth by measuring the distance from the pubic bone to the uterus.

Sitz Baths

Warm water baths recommended for postpartum perineal care.

Parental Education Topics

Includes newborn care, feeding cues, and safe sleeping practices.

Surgical Site Monitoring

Assess for tenderness, redness, and signs of infection after C-section.

Cervical Ripening Agents

Medications like prostaglandins used to prepare the cervix for labor.

Breech Presentation

Position of the fetus where buttocks or feet come first during delivery.

Skin-to-Skin Contact Importance

Enhances bonding, breastfeeding success, and newborn temperature regulation.

Vernix Caseosa

A waxy protective coating covering the skin of newborns at birth.

Uterine Atony Risks

May lead to postpartum hemorrhage if the uterus fails to contract effectively.

Responsive Care for Newborns

Includes addressing immediate needs after birth like clear airway and warmth.

Monitoring Cervical Changes

Important for determining progress in labor.

Labor Stages Overview

Include: first stage (dilation), second stage (pushing), third stage (placenta).

Diaphoresis Post-Birth

Common normal body response as fluid is expelled after pregnancy.

Naegele’s Rule

Calculates due date by adding 7 days to LMP and subtracting 3 months.

Common Newborn Complications

Problems like jaundice, low blood sugar, and infection risks.

Newborn Vital Signs Monitoring

Normal ranges for heart rate, temperature, and respiration rate.

Breast Engorgement Solutions

Involves frequent feeding and cold compresses for relief.

Postpartum Exercise Recommendations

Begin gradually with emphasis on pelvic floor strengthening.

Care for Cesarean Birth Mothers

Includes incision care, pain management, and monitoring for complications.

Shared Decision Making

Involves communication between healthcare providers and patients.

Risk Assessment in Labor

Monitor for signs of fetal distress, maternal health, and progression.

Signs of Good Postpartum Recovery

Firm uterus, minimal discomfort, and normal vital signs.

Complications from Retained Placenta

Includes hemorrhage and need for surgical intervention.

Signs of Miscarriage Types

Includes threatened, inevitable, incomplete, and complete miscarriage.

Importance of Hydration

Prevents complications like urinary retention and enhances recovery.

Assessing Emotional Health Postpartum

Monitor for mental health issues like depression or anxiety in new mothers.

Evaluation of Labor Progress

Determinants include contraction pattern and cervical dilation.

Fluid Management Postpartum

Encourage adequate hydration to support recovery and lactation.