Doula Certification Labor Support Techniques 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is effleurage in labor support?
- Deep tissue massage
- Gentle, light stroking massage of the abdomen (Correct answer)
- Pressure point therapy
- Aromatherapy application
Correct answer: Gentle, light stroking massage of the abdomen
Effleurage is a gentle, rhythmic stroking massage applied to the abdomen or back to promote relaxation during contractions.
Question 2: Which breathing technique is commonly taught to laboring clients?
- Valsalva breathing
- Patterned paced breathing (Correct answer)
- Hyperventilation
- Breath holding
Correct answer: Patterned paced breathing
Patterned paced breathing helps laboring clients focus attention away from pain and promotes steady oxygenation throughout contractions.
Question 3: What is a birth plan?
- A medical order written by the OB
- A document outlining a client's preferences for labor and birth (Correct answer)
- A legal contract with the hospital
- An insurance authorization form
Correct answer: A document outlining a client's preferences for labor and birth
A birth plan is a written document outlining a client's preferences and priorities for their labor, birth, and immediate postpartum period.
Question 4: Which labor position can help maximize pelvic outlet dimensions during pushing?
- Flat on back
- Squatting (Correct answer)
- Lying on stomach
- Standing with feet together
Correct answer: Squatting
Squatting can increase the pelvic outlet by up to 28%, helping the baby descend and rotate during the pushing stage.
Question 5: What is the purpose of using a birth ball during labor?
- To monitor contractions
- To promote pelvic movement, comfort, and optimal fetal positioning (Correct answer)
- To replace epidural anesthesia
- To measure cervical dilation
Correct answer: To promote pelvic movement, comfort, and optimal fetal positioning
A birth ball encourages gentle rocking and swaying movements that promote pelvic mobility and fetal descent.
Question 6: What does 'continuous support' mean in doula care?
- Visiting every 2 hours
- Being present throughout the entire labor and birth process (Correct answer)
- Providing phone support only
- Checking in once per shift
Correct answer: Being present throughout the entire labor and birth process
Continuous support means the doula remains present with the client throughout labor and birth, not leaving for breaks or shift changes.
Doula Certification Labor Support Techniques 2
What is effleurage in labor support?