Final answer:
During the second stage of labor, the best advice from a nurse for effective pushing is to 'Push when you feel the urge and breathe between attempts,' as it aligns with the body's natural urges and the necessity of breathing for both the mother's and baby's well-being.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the second stage of labor, when the uterus contracts and it's time for the mother to push, the most effective direction given by a nurse to achieve proper pushing technique would be: 'Push when you feel the urge and breathe between attempts.' This advice takes into account the natural urge to push that occurs when the baby is descending, allowing the mother to work with her body's instincts and contractions. It also emphasizes the importance of breathing, which is essential for the baby's oxygen supply, and the mother's stamina and comfort.
Encouraging the mother to hold her breath and push as hard as she can might not be the best advice. Effective pushing involves controlled breathing techniques and working with the body's natural rhythms, rather than forcing the process. Additionally, waiting until fully dilated and then starting to push is important to ensure that pushing efforts are effective. Once contraction begins, controlled pushing to aid the baby's descent, while keeping the mouth closed to avoid expending too much energy, can be helpful.
Synthetic oxytocin, or Pitocin, is sometimes administered if labor should stop before the second stage is reached, to restart and maintain labor, facilitating the progression towards the stage where pushing is necessary.