Question

You are the labor and delivery nurse, Lisa Smith a 32 year-old G3P2, 39 weeks gestation comes to the birthing unit having contractions and feeling somewhat uncomfortable. You suspect she is in labor but in order to determine your next course of action, you must gather further information. Post a comprehensive response to the following three (3) questions in regard to the intrapartum scenario:

1.What three (3) initial questions would you ask to further assess Lisa's labor?

2. On examination, D.H. is 80% effaced and 4 cm dilated. The fetal heart rate (FHR) is 150 beats/min and regular. She is admitted to a labor and delivery room on the unit.

What three (3) nursing measures should be done at this time?

3.In your own words, identify each stage of labor, and provide a brief description of each stage.

Answer 1

1) questions that need to be asked

A)when did contractions started

B)frequency and intensity of contractions

C)does she feel fetal movements, pressure of fetus etc

D)isn't she suffering from hypertension

2) A)Administer oxytocics to induce contractions

B)check vitals including BP, respiration,pulse, temperature.

C) regular examination for crowning ND artificial rupture of membranes if not ruptured

3) STAGES OF LABOUR

IST STAGE/DILATION STAGE:Begins from regular rythmic uterine contractions up to full dilation of cervix (10cm)

SECOND STAGE/EXPULSION STAGE:

Begins from full dilation of cervix up to delivery of baby

THIRD STAGE/PLACENTAL STAGE :

Begins from delivery of baby up to delivery of placenta and membranes

FOURTH STAGE/OBSERVATION STAGE:

here mother is observed for preventing complications like PPH ND vitals and re checked frequently.