Labor and Birth Complications
What is a common labor complication called "dystocia"?
Dystocia refers to a difficult or prolonged labor. It can occur due to factors such as a large baby, a malpositioned baby, or issues with the mother's pelvis. Medical interventions may be necessary to assist with the progress of labor.
How is fetal heart rate monitored during labor?
Fetal heart rate can be monitored using electronic fetal monitoring (EFM), which involves placing sensors on the mother's abdomen to track the baby's heart rate.
What education would you priotritize for a pregnant woman with gestational diabetes?
Exercise regularly and maintain a balanced diet
Which stage of labor involves the expulsion of the infant?
Second stage
A pregnant woman in her third trimester complains of lower back pain. What anatomical changes contribute to this discomfort?
Increased uterine size and pressure on the lumbar spine
What is a "placental abruption" during childbirth?
Placental abruption is when the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery, causing heavy bleeding and fetal distress.
What are the signs of fetal distress during labor?
Abnormal changes in the fetal heart rate (bradycardia, tachycardia, decelerations) decreased fetal movement, and meconium staining of the amniotic fluid
What finding indicates worsening preeclampsia?
Decreased deep tendon reflexes.
During which stage of labor does full cervical dilation occur?
Second stage
Why might a pregnant woman experience frequent nosebleeds?
Increased blood volume and vascular congestion
What is shoulder dystocia?
Shoulder dystocia is when the baby's shoulder gets stuck during delivery, requiring specific maneuvers to safely deliver the baby.
How is fetal heart rate monitored during labor?
By using electronic fetal monitoring (EFM), which involves placing sensors on the mother's abdomen to track the baby's heart rate.
What is the priority nursing intervention for placenta previa?
Monitor for vaginal bleeding.
Which factor plays a significant role in determining the course of birth?
Fetal head size
What complications may be associated with low levels of hCG in early pregnancy?
Impaired implantation and risk of miscarriage
What is umbilical cord prolapse?
Umbilical cord prolapse is when the umbilical cord slips through the cervix before the baby, potentially compromising the baby's oxygen supply.
During electronic fetal monitoring (EFM), what does a reassuring fetal heart rate pattern typically include?
Accelerations in fetal heart rate
What finding requires immediate intervention during signs of preterm labor?
Cervical dilation of 2 cm
The fetal adaptation to labor includes changes in:
Fetal heart rate
Why is folic acid important during pregnancy?
Prevents neural tube defects in the developing fetus
What is meconium aspiration syndrome?
Meconium aspiration syndrome occurs when a baby inhales meconium into their lungs before or during birth, leading to breathing difficulties that require treatment.
What is the purpose of assessing amniotic fluid volume during fetal assessment?
To monitor for signs of fetal distress
What is a key intervention to prevent Rh isoimmunization?
Administer Rh immunoglobulin (RhIg) during the first trimester
What best describes the psychologic response during labor?
Fluctuating emotions and fear of the unknown
Which placental structure facilitates nutrient exchange between mother and fetus?
Chorionic villi