MATERNAL AND FETAL DANGER SIGNS OF LABOR
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INTRODUCTION
During labor and delivery, there are some situations that a wide variation from normal may exist
specifically in the woman's response and pattern of uterine contractions. These danger signs might be a
developing complication in labor and delivery that both the mother and baby's condition is at stake.
This module provides you discussion on the maternal and fetal danger signs of labor and the indicated
nursing care intervention.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
At the end of this session students are expected to:
1. Assess the danger signs of labor both the maternal and fetus.
TOPICS
Maternal (see Box 15.4 page 346 MATERNAL AND CHILD by Piliterri 8th ed)
 High or low Blood pressure
During the second stage of labor, it is expected that the mother's BP will slightly increase from
normal due to the experienced labor pains, but a continuous increase of 30mmHg in systolic
pressure and diastolic of more than 15mmHg must be monitored and reported. An increase and
decrease of blood pressure in labor might signify impending complications in labor and delivery.
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Abnormal pulse
An increase in pulse might be an indication of hemorrhage that may lead to more severe
complications of shock, needs urgent referral.
Abnormal lower abdominal contour
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Inadequate or prolong contraction
Inadequate or prolong uterine contraction might lead to complications that's why frequent
monitoring must be done regularly. Monitoring for its contraction duration, interval, and
frequency.
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Abnormal Lower abdominal contour
A distended bladder shows an abnormal abdominal contour, mother in labor must be asked to
void every 2 hours interval. A distended bladder will obstruct the presenting part to descend.
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Increasing apprehension
A woman in labor that is about to deliver her baby must be given psychological support as part
of preparing her for the procedure of the delivery process.
Fetal
Any deviation in the mother's condition will always affect her baby's, that's why both the mother
and her baby's health status must be assessed at the same time.
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High or low fetal heart rate (FHR)
Frequent monitoring of the FHR is necessary to detect late or variable deceleration pattern. Any
increase or decrease in FHR monitored must be urgently reported.
Meconium stain
The green color in amniotic fluid might be a warning signal of an ongoing fetal distress
Hyperactivity might be a sign of hypoxia, a common reaction to a need for oxygen.
Low oxygen saturation