PRECIPITATE AND EMERGENCY DELIVERY
There are times when labor progresses so rapidly that the nurse is faced with the
task of delivering the baby even within the confines of a hospital setting. And, in
addition, there are times when a woman begins labor in a variety of physical settings
and during a variety of climatic disturbances away from a medical facility. During these
situations is when the nurse has the primary responsibility for providing a physically and
psychologically safe experience for the woman and her baby. It is important that the
nurse maintains composure and keeps calm. Whenever possible, the patient should be
told what to anticipate and what she can do to cooperate effectively. Working as a team
is essential and can be accomplished if confidence is instilled by competence in both
the physical and emotional aspects of care.
TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
a. Precipitate Delivery. This refers to a delivery which results after an
unusually rapid labor (less than three hours) and culminates in the rapid, spontaneous
expulsion of the infant. Delivery often occurs without the benefit of asepsis.
b. Emergency Delivery. This refers to an unplanned, non delivery room, non-
hospital birth which occurs as a result of precipitous labor, geographical distance from
the hospital, or other cause for the unexpected delivery.
Be aware that the following information also applies to emergency delivery.
However, all situations/factors may not be applicable due to the setting
(hospital/non-hospital); but it will be to your advantage to be knowledgeable
and skilled with all of the following information.
FACTORS THAT MAY PREDISPOSE A WOMAN TO A PRECIPITATE
There are common factors which may cause a woman to deliver rapidly. These
a. A multipara with relaxed pelvic or perineal floor muscles may have an
extremely short period of expulsion.
b. A multipara with unusually strong, forceful contractions. Two to three
powerful contractions may cause the baby to appear with considerable rapidity.