for shoulder dystocia. Pregravid height, weight, and
BMI should be included in the health record.10 Estimated
fetal weight or fundal height should be assessed
and recorded at labor admission along with clinical
pelvimetry and a determination of clinical adequacy
for labor.10 Although these elements of the physical
examination are most often done by the midwife or
physician, the labor nurse can remind the birth attendant
if items are missing from the admission record.
The labor nurse might also advocate for the use of a
standard labor admission form or electronic template
that contains blank fields for estimated fetal weight,
fundal height, and assessment of pelvic adequacy.
Blank fields remind clinicians to document these elements
of assessment.
Fetal position should be palpated and documented
as part of the nursing labor admission. Palpation may
be difficult if the mother is obese. Location of the fetal
heart tones may assist in determining fetal position.
Knowing the location of the fetal back will assist the
nurse in giving the most effective suprapubic pressure
if needed during the birth