What is the primary objective during the second stage of labor?

During the second stage of labor, the primary objective is to facilitate the expulsion of the fetus. This stage begins when the cervix is fully dilated and ends when the baby is born. The focus here is on supporting the mother as she pushes to deliver the baby, ensuring that the fetus moves down the birth canal efficiently and safely.

Facilitating expulsion involves guiding the mother through effective pushing techniques and monitoring the progress of labor to minimize complications. While maintaining fetal physiologic reserve and oxygenation is important throughout labor, particularly during the second stage, it is not the main objective; rather, it is a supportive measure to ensure the fetus remains stable as the delivery occurs.

Assessment of the maternal vascular system and monitoring uterine contractions are also important aspects of care, but they serve as background support to the primary goal of achieving a successful delivery. Overall, the focus during this stage is primarily on the active delivery and the safety of both the mother and the newborn.