Final answer:
Lung sounds are monitored periodically during the first stage of labor and may be assessed more frequently during active labor. The mother's respiratory minute volume increases by 50 percent in the latter half of pregnancy, which has implications for labor monitoring. Newborns' first breath is crucial for lung inflation and circulatory changes, stressing the importance of respiratory assessments in labor and delivery.
Step-by-step explanation:
Assessing lung sounds during the first stage and active labor is crucial for maternal and fetal well-being. While specific clinical protocols can vary by institution, healthcare professionals typically monitor lung sounds periodically to ensure that the mother is respiring effectively and to rule out the onset of any respiratory complications that can arise due to the physiological changes of labor.
During the first stage of labor, assessment of lung sounds may not be as frequent unless there are specific respiratory concerns or conditions present that require close monitoring. However, during active labor, there may be an increased frequency in assessing lung sounds due to the higher intensity of labor, increased exertion by the mother, and potential for rapid changes in her condition.
It is worth noting that a woman's minute volume—the volume of gas inhaled or exhaled by the lungs per minute—increases by about 50 percent during the second half of pregnancy. Additionally, the first breath of a newborn is vital; it involves the inflation of the lungs, clearing of amniotic fluid, and a major circulatory reconfiguration to adapt to life outside the womb. These are critical considerations and underscore the reason why monitoring lung sounds and overall respiratory function is a vital component of labor and delivery care.