Shoulder dystocia. Nursing interventions and risk-management strategies

Shoulder dystocia is unpredictable; however, once identified there are reasonable steps that perinatal providers will be expected to take to attempt to dislodge the impacted shoulder. Be aware of these interventions and have a plan for what to do should dystocia occur. Stay calm and help the woman and physician or CNM through the crisis. Call for additional help as appropriate. Provide emotional support to the woman and her family. Ensure that the medical record reflects the events as accurately as possible. If an injury results, the nurse can then be sure that the team did the best they could to intervene during the emergency.