Osmosis video - Shoulder dystocia: Nursing

Shoulder dystocia is a birth complication that occurs when the baby's shoulder becomes stuck behind the mother's pubic bone during delivery. This can cause the baby to become lodged in the birth canal and can prevent the baby from being born safely.

Shoulder dystocia is sometimes unpredictable and unpreventable, but there are maternal, fetal, and procedural factors that increase risk. During delivery, shoulder dystocia is often diagnosed with the turtle sign � where the fetal head retracts back into the birth canal.

Management usually requires additional obstetrical maneuvers, such as McRoberts and posterior arm and rotational maneuvers, in order for the baby to be safely delivered. When such maneuvers fail, then a cesarean birth might be the best option. Goals of nursing care during shoulder dystocia include preventing maternal and fetal injury and providing emotional support