Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 28, 2026
08:24
Sit-to-stand-and-walk from 120% Knee Height: A Novel Approach to Assess Dynamic Postural Control Independent of Lead-limb
Published on: August 30, 2016
10.8K
Passive descent in the second stage: evaluation of variation in practice patterns
Carol Morcos1, Aaron B Caughey2
1a Department of OB/GYN, The Corvallis Clinic , Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center , Corvallis , OR , USA.
Summary
The length of the second stage of labor in nulliparous women varied by nursing shift and provider type when passive descent occurred. These factors suggest provider behaviors impact labor duration.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Perinatal Care
- Health Services Research
Background:
- The second stage of labor is a critical period in childbirth.
- Factors influencing its duration, such as staffing and provider type, are important for optimizing outcomes.
- Understanding variations in the second stage of labor is crucial for improving patient care in community hospitals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the length of the second stage of labor in nulliparous women.
- To investigate the impact of staffing factors and provider type on second stage labor duration.
- To analyze outcomes associated with variations in the second stage of labor.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study of nulliparous women over a 2-year period.
- Primary outcomes: passive descent and length of the second stage.
- Secondary outcomes: mode of delivery, chorioamnionitis, and postpartum hemorrhage.
Main Results:
- Passive descent occurred in 198 women.
- Longer second stage durations were observed during specific nursing shifts (p=.046).
- Physician-led care was associated with higher rates of passive descent on weekdays compared to midwife-led care (36% vs. 26%, p=.034).
- Increased risk of hemorrhage and chorioamnionitis was noted with prolonged second stage duration (up to 6 hours).
Conclusions:
- Second stage labor length varies based on time of day and provider type when passive descent occurs.
- Provider behaviors appear to influence the duration of the second stage of labor.
- These findings highlight the need to consider staffing and provider practices in managing labor progression.
