EGA: estimated gestational age
AGA: appropriate for gestational age
SGA: small for gestational age
LGA: large for gestational age
IUGR: intrauterine growth restriction
EDD: estimated date of delivery
EDC: estimated date of confinement
LMP: last menstrual period
I. Intrapartal Nursing
A. Describe the three phases of the first stage of labor.
1. Early (latent)
- Mild irregular contractions
- Cervix dilated to about 0-5 cm
- Length of time the stage lasts 6-24 hrs.
- Effacement of cervix and an increase in the descent into the birth canal
, 2. Active
- Cervix dilates 6-10 cm
- Contractions become more regular, they last longer and they are stronger
- Can last from 3-6 hrs.
- Pain intensifies and the mom may experience cramping in their legs
- Mom may get a feeling of their water breaking
- Period of greatest cervical dilation and increased rate of descent into birth canal
B. Define the cervical changes that occur during labor.
During the beginning of labor, the cervix becomes soft, thin and dilates and reaches up to 10 cm
Latent phase: 0-5 cm
Active phase: 6-10 cm
Transition phase: 8-10 cm
Fully dilated: 10 cm, a little after this stage, the baby is ready to be delivered and is delivered
During labor, the cervix has lost its mucus plug and the amniotic sac has ruptured. Also, the bab
begins to press on the cervix and effacement begins. After, the cervix starts to dilate so the bab
can come out through the birth canal. When the baby comes in contact with the stretch recepto
this causes the mom to have an urge to start pushing.
C. Describe ways that the patient can cope with the discomforts of the first stage of labor.
Some things the mom can do to cope with discomforts are go for a walk, take a shower/bath,
listen to relaxing music, try breathing and relaxation techniques that were learned in a childbirth