Pain Management in Labor Flashcards
6 cards from real Childbirth Educator practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Pain Management in Labor flashcards as text
What is an epidural anesthesia and how is it administered during labor?
Answer: Medication delivered through a catheter in the epidural space of the lower back to block pain
An epidural involves a catheter placed in the epidural space of the lumbar spine through which local anesthetic and/or opioids are continuously delivered to block labor pain.
What is the difference between a spinal block and an epidural for labor pain management?
Answer: A spinal is a single injection into the spinal fluid for immediate effect; an epidural uses a catheter for continuous dosing
A spinal block is a single injection into the cerebrospinal fluid that works immediately but wears off; an epidural places a catheter for continuous or on-demand dosing during labor.
What is nitrous oxide (laughing gas) used for in labor pain management?
Answer: To reduce anxiety and take the edge off pain without causing numbness
Nitrous oxide mixed with oxygen is inhaled during contractions to reduce anxiety and perception of pain while allowing the laboring person to remain mobile and aware.
What is TENS and how is it used for labor pain management?
Answer: Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation applied to the back to interfere with pain signals
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) uses small electrical pulses delivered through skin electrodes on the back to disrupt pain signal transmission.
What does 'pain tolerance' mean in the context of labor education?
Answer: An individual's subjective ability to endure pain, shaped by fear, culture, support, and expectations
Pain tolerance is a subjective, individualized experience influenced by psychological, cultural, physical, and situational factors that childbirth educators must address without judgment.
What is the gate control theory of pain and how does it apply to labor?
Answer: Non-painful stimuli can 'close the gate' to pain signals, explaining why massage and heat reduce labor pain
Gate control theory proposes that non-painful stimuli (such as massage, heat, or pressure) can compete with and block pain signals in the spinal cord, which underpins many comfort measures taught in childbirth education.
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