Which stage of labour starts from full dilatation of the cervix and ends with expulsion of the fetus from bir… - DSSSB - 28 August 2019 (Shift-1)

DSSSB - 28 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Obstetrics and Midwifery Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: DSSSB - 28 August 2019 (Shift-1)

Explanation

The second stage of labor is defined as the period that begins with full dilatation of the cervix, which is 10 centimeters.
This stage concludes with the complete expulsion of the fetus from the birth canal, also known as the birth of the baby.
It is characterized by the mother's active pushing efforts, which help the baby descend through the pelvis and vagina.
The duration of the second stage can vary, typically lasting from a few minutes to a few hours, and is often longer for first-time mothers.

Option A: The fourth stage of labor is the period of immediate postpartum recovery, beginning after the delivery of the placenta and lasting for 1 to 4 hours. It does not involve the expulsion of the fetus.
Option B: The first stage of labor begins with the onset of true labor pains and ends with the full dilatation of the cervix. The question describes what happens after the first stage is complete.
Option D: The third stage of labor begins immediately after the fetus is expelled and ends with the delivery of the placenta and membranes.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain The question tests the knowledge of the different stages of labor and their specific start and end points as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
A nurse's understanding of the stages of labor is critical for providing appropriate care, monitoring progress, and identifying deviations from the norm.
During the second stage, the nurse's role includes encouraging effective pushing techniques, monitoring maternal vital signs and fetal heart rate, preparing for delivery, and providing emotional support.
What if? If the second stage of labor is prolonged (e.g., more than 3 hours in a nullipara with an epidural), it may indicate a problem like cephalopelvic disproportion or fetal malposition. The nurse must recognize this, notify the provider, and prepare for potential interventions like operative vaginal delivery or cesarean section to ensure maternal and fetal safety.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that requires knowledge of the definitions of the stages of labor.
First, carefully read the question to identify the specific start and end points being described: 'starts from full dilatation of the cervix' and 'ends with expulsion of the fetus'.
Next, mentally review or recall the definition of each of the four stages of labor.
Compare the description in the question with the definition of each stage.
The first stage ends with full dilatation. The third stage starts after the fetus is expelled. The fourth stage is after the placenta is delivered.
The second stage starts with full dilatation and ends with the expulsion of the fetus, which perfectly matches the question's description. Therefore, select 'Second stage' as the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: The question tests the knowledge of the different stages of labor and their specific start and end points.
Stem keywords: stage of labour, full dilatation of the cervix, expulsion of the fetus
Lead-in keywords: Which

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E6 Midwifery Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing Sandeep Kaur p. 40-48

E6 Obstetrics Williams p. 8-23