Maternal Physiology Chapter Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the average blood loss at birth typically observed?

900-1000 ml

600-800 ml

300-500 ml (correct)

100-200 ml

Which of the following changes occur to blood pressure during labor?

Rises by 15 mm Hg (correct)

Rises by 25 mm Hg

Decreases by 10 mm Hg

Remains unchanged

What is a potential side effect of epidural anesthesia?

Hypertension

Increased heart rate

Hypotension (correct)

Increased fluid retention

What should be done if hyperventilation occurs during labor?

Offer a paper bag Signup and view all the answers

To maintain hydration during labor, what should be encouraged?

Ice chips or sips of fluid Signup and view all the answers

Why should a mother be asked to void every 2 hours during labor?

To avoid overfilling of the bladder Signup and view all the answers

Relaxin is secreted during labor for what purpose?

To increase joint flexibility Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the gastrointestinal system during labor?

It remains inactive. Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical normal fetal heart rate (FHR) range during labor?

110-160 beats per minute Signup and view all the answers

What indicates that a woman has reached full dilation in the second stage of labor?

Cervical dilation is at 10 cm Signup and view all the answers

During the first stage of labor, which action is critical for monitoring fetal well-being?

Assessing fetal heart rate before, during, and after contractions Signup and view all the answers

What effect might crowning have on a woman's body during the second stage of labor?

It causes perineal bulging and tension. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the chief needs of a woman upon arriving at a birthing center during labor?

A sense of reassurance about her labor progression Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Leopold's maneuver during the first stage of labor?

To determine fetal presentation and position Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom might indicate complications during the second stage of labor?

Prolonged maternal exhaustion Signup and view all the answers

What is typically offered to women in labor to prevent dryness of lips?

Fluids and ice chips Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical frequency of contractions during the transition phase?

Every 2 to 3 minutes Signup and view all the answers

At what cervical dilation does the transition phase usually peak?

8 to 10 cm Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following should be avoided to keep labor as natural as possible?

Artificially inducing labor Signup and view all the answers

What is a common emotional response women may experience during the transition phase?

Loss of control Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated about the mother's and baby's post-birth care?

Mother and baby should be together post-birth Signup and view all the answers

What cervical condition occurs during the transition phase?

Full dilatation and complete effacement Signup and view all the answers

What intervention is generally discouraged during the first stage of labor?

Use of intravenous fluids Signup and view all the answers

What is generally the last physical change to occur before full dilation?

Rupture of membranes Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Labor and Delivery Overview

Average blood loss at birth ranges from 300-500 ml.
Blood pressure can increase by 15 mm Hg due to pain response and contractions.
Epidural anesthesia may lead to hypotension; monitor closely for hemorrhage and hypertensive signs.
Position mother on her side if receiving epidural and administer intravenous fluids as needed.

Respiratory System

Increased respiratory rate occurs to accommodate elevated cardiovascular needs.
Total oxygen demands can double during the second stage of labor.
Monitor for hyperventilation; if present, offer a paper bag for breathing assistance.

Temperature Regulation

Maternal temperature may rise during labor.
Diaphoresis helps cool the body through evaporation.
Signs of infection should be monitored; cool washcloths can provide comfort.

Fluid Balance

Insensible water loss increases due to perspiration and deeper respiration.
Women should be encouraged to hydrate with fluids or ice chips.

Urinary System

Fetal head pressure reduces bladder tone, hindering the ability to sense fullness.
Advise mothers to void every two hours to prevent overfilling and maintain bladder tone.

Musculoskeletal System

Relaxin hormone softens joint cartilage, allowing pelvic joints to open approximately 2 cm for fetal passage.
Monitor maternal mobility and be cautious of fall risks.

Gastrointestinal System

GI activity slows during labor, delaying digestion and stomach emptying.
Some women may experience loose bowel movements as contractions intensify.
Offer fluids and ice chips to prevent dehydration, but light meals may be permitted.

Stages of Labor and Delivery

First stage starts with uterine contractions, often prior to arrival at the birthing center.
Maternal reassurance is crucial; fatigue and pain indicate normal labor progression.

Assessment and Monitoring During First Stage

Maternal vital signs should be continuously monitored.
Fetal heart rate (FHR) normal range: 110-160 beats per minute; assessed before, during, and after contractions.
Monitor uterine contractions through palpation.
Evaluate cervical dilation and effacement.
Determine fetal station, presentation, and position via Leopold’s maneuver.
Assist with pelvic examinations.

Second Stage of Labor (Expulsion)

Lasts from full dilation and cervical effacement to the birth of the infant.
Contractions shift to an uncontrollable urge to push, accompanied by heavy perspiration.
As fetal head descends, crowning occurs, expanding from the size of a dime to a half-dollar.

Transition Phase

Contractions peak in intensity, occurring every 2-3 minutes and lasting 60-90 seconds, achieving maximum dilation (10 cm).
If not ruptured, membranes usually break at full dilation.
Nausea, vomiting, and intense discomfort are common in this phase; feelings of loss of control may arise.

Care Strategies During Labor

Encourage natural labor initiation without artificial induction.
Promote mobility rather than bed confinement during labor.
Ensure continuous support throughout labor.
Avoid routine intravenous fluid administration unless necessary.
Support non-supine birthing positions for mothers.
Facilitate mother-baby bonding and breastfeeding post-birth.
Favor spontaneous membrane rupture over amniotomy for natural progression.

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Description

This quiz covers key concepts of maternal physiology during childbirth. It discusses blood loss at birth, blood pressure changes in response to pain, and the implications of epidural anesthesia. Additionally, it highlights the importance of monitoring respiratory responses and managing potential complications.