A non-stress test (NST) is used to evaluate how the fetal heart rate responds to fetal movements, which helps to assess the fetal well-being and oxygenation. It is typically performed in the third trimester to monitor for any signs of fetal distress or to confirm that the fetus is receiving adequate oxygen.
During the active phase of labor, the primary goal is to monitor and ensure that cervical dilation progresses at an appropriate rate (about 1 cm per hour). This helps in assessing whether the labor is progressing normally and allows for timely interventions if needed.
Postpartum hemorrhage often results in a decrease in hematocrit levels due to significant blood loss. Monitoring for a drop in hematocrit can help identify postpartum hemorrhage and prompt appropriate intervention.
The Apgar score assesses five criteria: heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex response, and color. Birth weight is not included in the Apgar scoring system, which focuses on immediate adaptation to extrauterine life.
For a newborn who has not started breathing immediately after birth, the initial steps include performing gentle stimulation (e.g., rubbing the baby’s back) and assessing the need for positive pressure ventilation if the baby is not breathing or has weak breathing. Administering intravenous fluids or providing oxygen is not the first-line intervention; chest compressions are considered only if there is no response to ventilation and the heart rate remains low.
