Maternity Nursing: Intrapartum Q 28

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The breathing technique that the mother should be instructed to use as the fetus’ head is crowning is:

  

     A. Blowing

     B. Slow chest

     C. Shallow

     D. Accelerated-decelerated

    

    

Correct Answer: A. Blowing.

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Blowing forcefully through the mouth controls the strong urge to push and allows for a more controlled birth of the head.

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Option B: Slow breathing may be started when contractions are intense enough that the woman can no longer walk or talk through them without pausing. Use slow breathing for as long as it is helpful. Switch to another pattern if the woman becomes tense and can no longer relax during contractions.

Option C: Most women feel the need to switch to light breathing at some time during the active phase of labor. Let the intensity of the contractions guide in deciding if and when to use light breathing. Breathe in and out rapidly through the mouth at about one breath per second. Keep breathing shallow and light. Inhalations should be quiet, but exhalation should be clearly audible.

Option D: This is a variation of light breathing. It is sometimes referred to as “pant-pant-blow” or “hee-hee-hoo” breathing. Variable breathing combines light shallow breathing with a periodic longer or more pronounced exhalation. Variable breathing is used in the first stage if the woman feels overwhelmed, unable to relax, in despair, or exhausted.

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