Pilot Study of Nurse-Led Maternal Position Changes to Shorten First Stage of Prolonged Labor in Women

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating whether a specific series of maternal position changes can improve outcomes for patients experiencing prolonged labor. This pilot, randomized control trial focuses on patients with prolonged first stage labor, aiming to assess if a nurse-led circuit of position changes reduces labor duration, improves maternal and newborn health, and increases maternal satisfaction and sense of control during labor. The study emphasizes reducing cesarean delivery rates by exploring effective labor management techniques. Participants will be randomly assigned to either receive a nurse-led circuit of maternal position changes every 2 hours, repeated up to three times, or continue with routine care involving standard position changes like walking and sitting. The circuit includes specific positions such as side-lying releases, open-knee chest, shaking apples, flying cowgirl, and running man, with continuous fetal monitoring throughout. Nurses will be trained and supported to carry out these maneuvers, and adherence and any deviations will be tracked. During the study, data on labor progression, delivery outcomes, and maternal and neonatal health will be collected by blinded reviewers. After delivery, participants will complete a brief survey assessing satisfaction, control over labor, and acceptance of the position changes. The primary measure is the duration of the first stage of labor, with secondary outcomes including mode of delivery, labor lengths, maternal and neonatal morbidity, and maternal satisfaction. Safety will be monitored closely, and the total participation includes labor and delivery through postpartum discharge.

Maternal Maneuvers During Prolonged Labor