Question

A client is giving birth when shoulder dystocia occurs in the fetus. The nurse recognizes that which condition in the client is likely to increase the risk for shoulder dystocia?

A. Pelvic inlet contraction
B. Maternal obesity
C. Uterine atony
D. Previous cesarean birth

Answer 1

Maternal obesity is likely to increase the risk for shoulder dystocia during childbirth.

Step-by-step explanation:

Shoulder dystocia is a condition that occurs during childbirth when the baby's shoulders get stuck in the birth canal. The nurse recognizes that maternal obesity is likely to increase the risk for shoulder dystocia. This is because the excessive amount of fat tissue in an obese mother can make it difficult for the baby to pass through the birth canal smoothly, increasing the chances of the baby's shoulders getting stuck.