What is the stage of labor from full dilatation of cervix to expulsion of baby?

Appeared in: NHM MP Staff Nurse-2019

Explanation

The second stage of labor is defined by the period that starts with the full dilatation of the cervix, which is approximately 10 centimeters.
This stage concludes with the complete expulsion of the fetus from the mother's birth canal.
It is characterized by strong uterine contractions and the mother's active pushing or bearing-down efforts.
The second stage is further divided into two phases: the propulsive phase (descent to the pelvic floor) and the expulsive phase (active pushing until delivery).

Option A: The first stage of labor begins with the onset of true labor pains and ends with the full dilatation of the cervix. The question asks for the stage that starts with full dilatation.
Option C: The third stage of labor begins after the baby has been expelled and ends with the delivery of the placenta and membranes.
Option D: This option is incorrect because a correct answer, the second stage of labor, is listed among the choices.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Stages of Normal Labor as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
During the second stage of labor, the nurse's primary role is to monitor maternal vital signs, fetal heart rate (especially during and after contractions), and the progress of fetal descent.
Nurses provide crucial support by coaching the mother on effective pushing techniques, encouraging position changes to facilitate descent, and providing comfort measures.
Recognizing a prolonged second stage (e.g., greater than 3 hours in a primigravida) is critical, as it may indicate cephalopelvic disproportion or fetal malposition, requiring potential intervention like operative vaginal delivery or cesarean section.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: 'full dilatation of cervix' and 'expulsion of baby'. These are the start and end points of the stage you need to identify.
Recall the definitions of the four stages of labor.
Match the start and end points given in the question to the correct stage. The first stage ends with full dilatation. The second stage starts with full dilatation and ends with the baby's birth. The third stage starts after the baby's birth.
Based on this, the period from full dilatation to the baby's expulsion is the second stage of labor.
Eliminate the other options. The first stage ends where this stage begins. The third stage begins where this stage ends.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q85EvQYeAFgEUeJR5E8ZVE

E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur pp. 2-7, 40-48

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 8-23

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