5 Complications of Labor and Birth Free Online FlashCards

What do the three fetal heart rate categories indicate?

Category I is reassuring, Category II is indeterminate and needs ongoing assessment, and Category III is abnormal and may indicate impaired fetal oxygenation.

How is uterine tachysystole defined?

Uterine tachysystole is more than five contractions in 10 minutes, averaged over 30 minutes; it can limit fetal recovery time between contractions.

What reversible causes or measures should be considered for an abnormal fetal tracing?

Reposition the patient, reduce or stop oxytocin, address maternal hypotension, and assess for excessive contractions or cord compression.

What if Category III findings persist after corrective measures?

If Category III findings persist despite corrective measures, expedite birth by the safest feasible route, based on fetal station and position.

What defines shoulder dystocia?

It occurs when the fetal head is born but the shoulders do not deliver with gentle routine traction.

What are key initial actions and prohibited maneuvers for shoulder dystocia?

Call for help; trained clinicians typically begin with the McRoberts position and suprapubic pressure. Do not use fundal pressure or forceful traction on the fetal head.

What is umbilical cord prolapse, and when should it be suspected?

The cord descends through the cervix beside or ahead of the presenting part after membrane rupture. Sudden fetal bradycardia or recurrent decelerations afterward raise suspicion.

How is cord compression managed while urgent birth is arranged?

Call for immediate assistance and prepare for urgent birth. Trained staff relieve pressure by elevating the presenting part; avoid unnecessary handling of an exposed cord.

What warning signs can suggest uterine rupture?

Possible signs include sudden persistent fetal bradycardia, abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, loss of fetal station, or maternal instability. Presentation varies.

What are key responses to a seizure suspected to be eclampsia?

Protect the patient from injury, summon emergency help, support breathing and circulation, and treat the seizure and severe hypertension according to protocol. Magnesium sulfate is commonly used for eclamptic seizures.

What criteria define active-phase arrest?

The patient must be at least 6 cm dilated with ruptured membranes and no cervical change despite four hours of adequate uterine activity or six hours of inadequate activity with oxytocin.

When may operative vaginal birth be considered?

It may be considered for concerning fetal status when birth is near, lack of descent despite pushing, or a maternal condition making continued pushing unsafe. Prerequisites, trained staff, and cesarean availability are essential.