Labor and Delivery Study Guide

1. Describe the contraction cycle. Why is it important that the contractions not last too long?

rhythmic but intermittent with periods of rest between each contraction. Every contraction has 3 phases. Duration of contractions should not exceed 90 sec. extended contraction times is depriving fetus of O2

2. Why is it best if the fetus is flexed during labor?

Flexion of the fetus allows the fetal head to fit into the pelvic outlet

3. What are the four stages of labor? What occurs during each stage? How do the three phases of the first stage of labor differ from one another?

First stage – onset of true labor. Complete dilation (10 cm)

Latent phase

Active phase

Transition phase

Second stage – complete cervical dilation, cardinal movements of fetus

Third stage – delivery of placenta within 5-30 min after birth of fetus

4. Describe the normal FHR.

110-160 bpm, crying can increase

5. What is the significance of variability on the electronic monitor (EFM)?

No variability = bad. Should relate with contraction cycle

6. What initial nursing responses are expected if the fetus shows a pattern of late decelerations in the fetal monitor? Variable decelerations?

Turn on left side, O2,

7. What nursing measures help make the woman more comfortable and better able to cope with labor?

8. Describe nursing observations of the mother immediately after birth?

Fundal assessment, delivery of placenta, manage/control bleeding, monitor bp, pulse, temp

9. Describe teaching regarding perineal care to the new mother.

Sitz bath, peri bottle, stitches

10. Describe the fourth stage of labor. How does the nursing care of the mother who had a

C-section differ from that of the woman who had a vaginal delivery?

1-4 hr after birth. Mothers body begins to regulate itself. Fundal massage. Incision monitored and coughing and deep breathing for c-section

11. Identify...