Nurses use various methods to monitor labor progress and the well-being of the mother and baby:
- Fetal Heart Monitoring: Continuous or intermittent monitoring of the baby's heart rate to detect any signs of distress. - Contraction Monitoring: Assessing the frequency, duration, and intensity of contractions. - Vital Signs: Regularly checking the mother's blood pressure, pulse, and temperature. - Cervical Exams: Periodic examinations to assess cervical dilation and effacement.