OBSTETRIC NURSING CARE IN NORMAL BIRTH

Abstract

A descriptive and retrospective study which aimed to describe obstetric nursing care during normal birth and identify the techniques used. Information from the nurses’ records about nursing care related to normal births was analyzed, and a total of 1287 births attended by midwives were identified. The most-used care techniques were deep breathing, pelvic movements, luke-warm baths and the left lateral position. The vertical delivery position was most common; the majority of women giving birth did not have episiotomies. The nurses established humanized practices of care with scientific evidence of benefit. However, the study also identified traditional behaviors and routines related to assistance of childbirth, such as the medical prescription of oxytocin.

Keywords

• Nursing care
• Normal birth
• Obstetric nursing