Behavioral Signs of Labor and Birth

Question 1

Behavioral signs of latent phase (stage 1)

Answer 1

• Calm/happy
• Talkative
• Connected to others

Question 2

Behavioral signs of active phase (stage 1)

Answer 2

• Focused/aware of contractions

- More difficult to have a conversation even when contractions aren’t happening

Question 3

Behavioral signs of transition phase (stage 1)

Answer 3

• Fall asleep btw contractions

- Flushed face around nose/cheeks/chest from cervical dilation and vasodilation

Question 4

Second stage

Answer 4

• Completely dilated until birth of baby
• May start pushing
• Intense focus and distressed
• Notable furrowed brow and jaw
• Many women are relieved (especially once baby is born)
• Becomes alert and aware of environment

Question 5

Third stage

Answer 5

• Birth of placenta

Question 6

Nursing Considerations for when a woman comes in during early labor

Answer 6

1. Send her home
2. Observe - walk into unit but don’t give her a room yet. Go to waiting area or early labor area; recheck in 2 hours
3. Admit - should progress and same person should do check each time; want 3-4 cm dilated before admit (active labor)

Question 7

Nursing Considerations during active and transition labor

Answer 7

• Keep mom as relaxed as possible

- Shower/accupressure/aromatherapy/etc

Question 8

Station

Answer 8

- Engaged = presenting part at ischial spines
0 = at line of ischial spines
-1 = 1 cm above ischial spines
\+1 = 1 cm below ischial spines
\+4 = crowning
\+5 = out