Maternity Heartbeat Monitor Related

Review Maternity Heartbeat Monitor related questions and content

During open glottis pushing, what is the laboring person instructed to do?

  • A. hold their breath and push for 10 seconds during each contraction
  • B. push spontaneously while exhaling during contractions
  • C. exhale slowly during contractions without pushing
  • D. perform deep breathing exercises between contractions
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: During open glottis pushing, the correct instruction is for the laboring person to push spontaneously while exhaling during contractions (Choice B). This technique helps prevent breath-holding, which can increase intra-abdominal pressure and reduce blood flow to the heart and baby. Exhaling while pushing allows for better oxygenation and reduces the risk of Valsalva maneuver-related complications. Holding their breath (Choice A) can increase the risk of fetal distress. Exhaling slowly without pushing (Choice C) is not effective in assisting with the pushing stage of labor. Deep breathing exercises between contractions (Choice D) are beneficial for relaxation but not the main focus during pushing.