Question

Amanda quickly dilates to 10 cm and feels a strong urge to push. FHR continues to be reassuring w/a baseline 145 and moderate variability present. The head is born easily over an intact perineum but rotates externally and retracts back against the perineum. The nurse and perinatologist recognize these signs as an indication of shoulder dystocia. What should the nurse do immediately?

Answer 1

When shoulder dystocia occurs, the nurse should call for help, notify the obstetrician, and prepare for maneuvers to resolve the dystocia, such as the McRoberts maneuver or suprapubic pressure.

Step-by-step explanation:

When shoulder dystocia is recognized during delivery, the nurse should act swiftly to help resolve the situation. Immediate steps include calling for additional assistance, notifying the obstetrician quickly, and preparing for maneuvers to dislodge the baby's shoulder. Such maneuvers may involve the McRoberts maneuver, which includes flexing the mother's thighs onto her abdomen to change the angle of the pelvis, or applying gentle pressure above the mother's pubic bone in an attempt to dislodge the posterior shoulder.

The nurse's immediate actions are critical in facilitating a safe and fast resolution to this emergency situation to prevent injury to both mother and child and to ensure a successful delivery.