In: Nursing
What are the recommendations during the active phase?
Active Phase
-contractions become more frequent (every 3-5 minutes) lasting 60 seconds, moderate to severe
-woman becomes more focused on each contraction and tends to draw
and inward attempt to cope with increasing demands of labor
- 4 to 7 cm dilated
-increased anxiety and discomforts, unwilling to be left alone
-Slight flush over face. Respirations deepen.
-Avg length 4.6 hrs primips, 2.4 hrs multips
-Assess and note color of vaginal secretions, IV therapy PRN. If epidural: IV hydration & monitor BP q 1-2 min x 15 min, then q 10-15 min til stable.
-Check vital signs q 15-60 min. Assess contractions q 5-15 min. Encourage voiding q 2 hr & assess for bladder distention if unable to void.
-Encourage shallow breathing or modified paced. Try to keep breathing rate no more than 16 bpm to prevent hyperventilation. Slow & rapid breathing may be combined (more rapid used at height of contraction)
-Contractions radiating to front with added pressure in groin as baby moves into pelvis. Backache may be increased.
-Fatigue becomes a factor. More dependent on coach. Needs encouragement, reassurance, praise. Change positions. Encourage relaxation bt contractions. Cool cloths for face, back rubs, massage, hot/cold packs for lower back, offer ice chips.
-Preoccupied with self and labor. Desire for companionship increases. Doubts about progress in labor & ability to cope may begin.