Final answer:
Before a client can safely begin to push during labor, cervical dilation should be fully at 10 centimeters. It is also vital to monitor the fetal heart rate to ensure the safety of the baby.
Step-by-step explanation:
Before a client is allowed to push during labor, it is crucial to determine cervical dilation. The cervix must be fully dilated to 10 centimeters for the birth process to proceed safely and effectively. Pushing before full dilation can lead to complications for both the mother and baby. During labor, the mother releases oxytocin, which stimulates contractions, helping the baby to move through the birth canal. Correctly timed pushing contributes to a successful delivery, and healthcare providers use various assessments, including checks of cervical dilation and monitoring of the fetal heart rate, to guide the labor process.
Ensuring that the cervix is fully dilated is important because pushing too early can cause maternal and fetal distress, increase the risk of a prolonged labor, and lead to other complications. Additionally, the fetal heart rate should be monitored to ensure the baby is tolerating labor well and not in distress.