Stages Of Labour Flashcards
Describe the first stage of labour
- the onset of contractions begin w/ increase in frequency, duration, and strength
- the amniotic sac generally ruptures
- the contractions are in 5 - 15 minute intervals
- effacement of cervix
When does the first stage of labour end?
When the cervix if fully dilated
How long does phase 1; early labour last?
A few hours to days w/ mild, irregular, and infrequent contractions
How much dilations and effacement of the cervix occurs during phase 1; early labour?
3-4 cm
How long do active labour contractions last and how often do they occur? (Duration and frequency)
45 - 60 seconds every 2 - 3 minutes
Primipara or primip refers to a women who is giving birth for the first time, how long can active labour last for?
Up to 18 hours
Multipara or multip are women who have given birth before. How long can active labour last for them?
Up to 12 hours
What is the presentation of first stage labour?
- having a hard time walking and talking during contractions
- distressed
- could have vomiting and shaking
- increased blood show
- SROM (spontaneous rupture of membranes
How are paramedics managing first stage labour?
Transport
What is the bloody show?
The expulsion of the mucus plug and its discharge signifying impending labour
When does the second stage of labour begin?
When the cervix is fully dilated and the baby’s head enters the birth canal
When is the end of the second stage of labour?
When the baby is fully delivered
In the second stage of labour, contractions are at its peak in terms of frequency and intensity. The perineum begins to _______ and indicates what?
The perineum begins to bulge and indicates the baby is moving downward
What are key indicators of second stage labour and imminent birth?
Urge to push and crowning of the baby’s head
What would imminent birth contractions look like for primips (frequency and duration)
Contractions lasting 60 -90 seconds every 2 - 3 minutes
What would imminent birth contractions look like in multips? (Frequency and duration)
Strong contractions lasting 60 - 90 seconds every 5 minutes
When does the third stage of labour begin and end?
Begins: baby is out
End: placenta is separated and delivered
What are signs of placenta separation?
- lengthening of umbilical cord
- gush or trickle of blood
- the uterus contracting again to expel placenta
What is the normal amount of blood loss during deliver of placenta?
<500 cc’s
What happens to the fungus (top of uterus) after delivery?
It lowers as the uterus contracts
What could a rising fundal height post deliver entail?
It can signal concealed bleeding
What is the purpose of external uterine massage?
It helps the uterus contract if the uterus is not contracting. It mimics natural contractions which prevents further bleeds
Why is oxytocin administered after delivery?
To facilitate uterine contractions and reduce the risk of post partum hemorrhage
Why should you delay cord clamping?
Delaying the cutting of the cord until it stops pulsating can significantly benefit the newborn by providing iron stores and preventing anemia
When should you preform uterine massage?
If the uterus feels soft or if there is heavy bleeding
Why does a boggy uterus (non contracting uterus) lead to significant blood loss?
Because a contracted uterus helps to compress blood vessels where the placenta was attached to
